New Jersey Assembly Bill A1111

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Requires electric public utility to charge residential rate for service used by residential customer for electric vehicle charging at charging stations within certain designated parking spaces.

Impact

The bill's implementation is expected to shift the dynamics of pricing for electricity in residential developments, particularly in areas aiming to accommodate electric vehicles. By mandating that utilities provide electricity at residential rates, it discourages excessive charges which could arise from the use of public utilities by collective residential developments. However, utility companies are allowed to maintain competitive pricing agreements if these developments choose to contract power from alternative suppliers, thereby ensuring some level of market competition. Overall, this legislation is poised to encourage more residential units to consider installing electric vehicle charging stations by reducing associated costs.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1111 aims to regulate the rates that electric public utilities can charge for electricity used by residential customers who operate electric vehicle charging stations. Specifically, it mandates that these utilities charge a residential rate for service when the charging stations are used in designated parking spaces at residential premises. The intention behind the bill is to promote the use of electric vehicles by ensuring that electric rates remain affordable for residents in planned real estate developments where these charging stations are installed. It aims to eliminate potential financial barriers that could deter residents from adopting electric vehicle technology, thus supporting the state's environmental goals.

Contention

Debates surrounding A1111 could arise from concerns over fairness and economic implications for public utilities. Critics may argue that this legislation could adversely affect utility revenue by restricting charging capabilities to residential rates, which may not cover the infrastructure costs associated with maintaining reliable electric service for multiple electric vehicle chargers. There may also be discussions about the balance between encouraging environmentally friendly technologies and ensuring that utility providers can sustain their operational viability. Further scrutiny could be directed towards the provisions that allow real estate developments to set their own electricity prices for charging services, which could lead to unequal access among residents.