Requires BPU to develop program to promote certain energy businesses in the State.
Impact
A significant aspect of A5693 is the establishment of specific target percentages for energy procurement from these diverse businesses. The bill outlines a goal where 25% of the energy procured by public entities and businesses using third-party energy suppliers should be sourced from qualifying companies by the fourth energy year of the program. This approach not only supports economic growth among underrepresented business groups but also fosters inclusivity within the energy sector.
Summary
Assembly Bill A5693 requires the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to establish a program promoting energy businesses that are women-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, or LGBTQ-owned. This initiative aims to diversify the energy sector and ensure that these businesses can compete for contracts and opportunities within the state. The program will launch within one year of the bill's enactment and will employ various strategies, including public information campaigns and possible financial incentives to promote these minority-owned businesses.
Conclusion
Ultimately, A5693 seeks to reshape the landscape of New Jersey's energy business environment. By prioritizing and promoting diverse ownership in energy supply, the state is positioning itself as a leader in equitable business practices while hoping to set a precedent for other sectors. The success of this bill will depend on effective monitoring and adjustments made by the BPU as the program evolves.
Contention
There may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of A5693, especially regarding the feasibility of the established percentages and market readiness. Critics may argue that mandating specific procurement ratios could strain existing contracts and market allocations, potentially leading to an increase in costs for public utilities and consumers. Furthermore, the process for certifying these businesses and determining their eligibility could present administrative challenges that must be addressed.
Establishes Office of Clean Energy Equity in BPU; directs establishment of certain clean energy, energy efficiency, and energy storage programs for overburdened communities; makes change to community solar program.
Establishes Office of Clean Energy Equity in BPU; directs establishment of certain clean energy, energy efficiency, and energy storage programs for overburdened communities; makes change to community solar program.
Establishes Office of Clean Energy Equity in BPU; directs establishment of certain clean energy, energy efficiency, and energy storage programs for overburdened communities; makes change to community solar program.
Provides that disability-owned businesses be included in certain businesses development programs, direct loan programs, and certification processes; requires Chief Diversity Officer compile information on awarding of State contracts to disability-owned businesses.
Provides that disability-owned businesses be included in certain businesses development programs, direct loan programs, and certification processes; requires Chief Diversity Officer compile information on awarding of State contracts to disability-owned businesses.
Provides that disability-owned businesses be included in certain business development programs, direct loan programs, and certification processes; requires Chief Diversity Officer compile information on awarding of State contracts to disability-owned businesses.
Provides that disability-owned businesses be included in certain business development programs, direct loan programs, and certification processes; requires Chief Diversity Officer compile information on awarding of State contracts to disability-owned businesses.
Revises goal for annual capacity of solar energy projects to be approved under Community Solar Energy Program; allows certain customers to self-attest to income for program participation; allows information disclosure of customers participating in program.
Revises goal for annual capacity of solar energy projects to be approved under Community Solar Energy Program; allows certain customers to self-attest to income for program participation; allows information disclosure of customers participating in program.
Makes $1.3 billion in federal funds available to DEP for use in New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Financing Program for lead service line replacement projects.