New Jersey Senate Bill S3914

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/1/23
• Refer: 6/1/23

Caption

Requires electric public utilities to submit new tariffs for commercial customers for BPU approval; regulates non-volumetric electricity fees charged to operators of fast charging electric vehicle chargers.

Impact

If enacted, S3914 would significantly impact the state’s energy regulations, particularly how electric utilities establish pricing structures for commercial EV charging stations. It mandates that tariff structures must avoid traditional demand-based charges and ensure neutrality towards the various types of EV charging technologies. This could lead to reduced costs for commercial operators of EV charging stations, fostering a more favorable environment for expanding charging infrastructure throughout New Jersey, thereby supporting broader EV adoption.

Summary

Senate Bill S3914 aims to reshape the regulatory framework for electric utilities in New Jersey, particularly in the context of providing electric service to commercial electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities. The bill mandates that every electric utility submit a new tariff for commercial customers, that must be approved by the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) within 180 days of the bill's enactment. This move is designed to ensure that the tariffs are more equitable between commercial and residential rates, and to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in the state by encouraging infrastructure investment.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding S3914 may center on the potential implications for utility revenues and the profitability of electric utilities. Critics may argue that eliminating demand charges and revising tariff structures could compromise the utilities' ability to recover costs associated with maintaining and expanding their service infrastructure. Additionally, while regulations promoting EV adoption are generally supported, stakeholders may debate the degree to which these regulations should prioritize rapid market penetration versus financial sustainability for utility companies.