New Jersey Senate Bill S1759

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Directs BPU to establish certain standards concerning electric public utility use of customer energy usage data.

Impact

The bill is designed to enhance data privacy and security for consumers within New Jersey. By requiring utilities to implement standardized privacy requirements established by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU), the legislation aims to protect CEUD from unauthorized access or disclosure. Furthermore, it mandates that utilities notify customers of any data breaches and take reasonable security measures to safeguard this data. These stipulations are intended to foster consumer trust in utilities' handling of personal data and to align with the state's clean energy goals by improving the infrastructure's reliability and efficiency.

Summary

Senate Bill S1759 introduces comprehensive regulations governing the use of customer energy usage data (CEUD) generated by advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), commonly referred to as smart meters. The legislation requires electric public utilities to establish certain standards for the collection, use, and disclosure of CEUD, thereby granting customers full ownership and control over their personal energy data. Utilities are mandated to obtain informed consent from customers prior to sharing their data with authorized third parties, ensuring that customers are well-informed about how their data will be utilized.

Contention

Despite its consumer-first approach, the bill may face challenges from various stakeholders. Supporters argue that it empowers consumers by providing them with ownership of their energy data and improving transparency in how that data is used. However, critics could contend that the stringent requirements placed on utilities may hinder operational efficiencies or lead to increased costs that could ultimately be passed on to consumers. The implementation of blurred definitions of what constitutes 'authorized third parties' could also spark debate, especially concerning who qualifies and under what conditions data may be shared within the energy sector.