New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3156

Introduced
3/7/22  

Caption

Directs BPU to study feasibility of adopting certain requirements for installation of new and replacement electric distribution utility poles and transmission towers.

Impact

The outcomes of this study could significantly influence state laws pertaining to infrastructure standards in New Jersey. By establishing enhanced requirements for electric utility poles and transmission towers, the legislation aims to mitigate outages and infrastructure failures during extreme weather, which is becoming increasingly relevant due to climate change. If implemented, these standards could lead to higher construction costs and changes in utility practices, potentially affecting ratepayers and local municipalities. Conversations within the legislature may highlight the balance between investing in reliable infrastructure and the financial implications for the communities served.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3156, introduced in New Jersey, directs the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to conduct a comprehensive study regarding the installation of new and replacement electric distribution utility poles and transmission towers. This initiative aims to evaluate the feasibility of enforcing specific standards to ensure that these structures can withstand severe weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and snowstorms. The study will involve an assessment of materials that may be deployed for utility poles, including concrete, steel, and fiberglass-reinforced composites, and consider higher classes of existing wooden poles. The BPU is tasked to submit its findings within six months of the bill's enactment.

Contention

While the bill does not exclusively designate specific modifications to existing laws, its passage may provoke debate regarding the economic impact on utility companies and consumers. Critics could argue that imposing stricter installation standards might lead to increased operational costs that are ultimately passed on to consumers. Supporters, however, may contend that improving the resilience of electrical infrastructure is a necessary investment to ensure public safety and sustainable electrical service, particularly in a changing climate. The discussions around this bill may also engage stakeholders from various sectors, including environmental advocates, public safety officials, and utility companies, seeking to address the multifaceted implications of the proposed standards.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ S1119

Directs BPU to study feasibility of adopting certain requirements for installation of new and replacement electric distribution utility poles and transmission towers.

NJ A3157

Establishes requirements for newly installed and replacement electric utility poles and transmission towers.

NJ S1120

Establishes requirements for newly installed and replacement electric utility poles and transmission towers.

NJ A760

Directs BPU to study whether State's electric distribution system meets certain standards.

NJ A1615

Directs BPU to study whether State's electric distribution system meets certain standards.

NJ A3984

Directs BPU to require electric public utilities to protect electric distribution and transmission system from human-caused and solar electromagnetic pulses.

NJ S3464

Requires electric public utilities to upgrade certain portions of electric transmission and distribution system with advanced conductors.

NJ A5442

Directs BPU to conduct study to determine feasibility, marketability, and costs of implementing large-scale geothermal heat pump systems in State.

NJ S2973

Requires electric public utilities to submit to BPU and implement integrated distribution plans.

NJ A4596

Requires electric public utilities to submit to BPU and implement integrated distribution plans.

Similar Bills

CA SB692

Transmission: transmission and wheeling access charges.

NJ S1119

Directs BPU to study feasibility of adopting certain requirements for installation of new and replacement electric distribution utility poles and transmission towers.

CA AB1653

Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 2011.

NJ A3157

Establishes requirements for newly installed and replacement electric utility poles and transmission towers.

CA SB284

Electricity: energization transparency and efficiency: wholesale distribution service.

CA SB1312

Electrical corporations: undergrounding of infrastructure: deenergization.

NJ S1120

Establishes requirements for newly installed and replacement electric utility poles and transmission towers.

ME LD1592

An Act to Reduce Energy Costs by Permitting the Ownership of Generation by Investor-owned Transmission and Distribution Utilities