New Jersey Assembly Bill A546

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires municipalities, public utilities, and State to use LED technology in certain street lights.

Impact

This bill represents a strategic shift in public policy towards energy conservation and sustainability. By requiring the use of LED lighting, the bill is anticipated to facilitate energy savings on a broad scale, thereby contributing to reduced municipal spending on electricity. Additionally, the legislation supports broader state goals for environmental preservation and reducing carbon footprints through the promotion of energy-efficient technologies. The establishment of standards for lighting, including considerations for glare reduction and minimizing light pollution, aims to enhance the quality of urban lighting while being mindful of the natural night environment.

Summary

Assembly Bill A546 mandates that municipalities, public utilities, and the State of New Jersey shall install or replace street lights with energy-efficient LED technology when existing lights fail. The legislation highlights the significant energy savings associated with LED lights, consuming 15% of the energy of incandescent bulbs while providing enhanced illumination and longevity, with bulbs lasting up to 100,000 hours. It is posited that the transition to LED street lights could reduce municipal electric utility bills by up to 65%, presenting a substantial cost-saving opportunity for local governments.

Contention

Despite the bill's environmental benefits and potential for cost savings, there may be concerns regarding the initial costs of transitioning to LED technology and whether municipalities will have the budget flexibility to comply with the new requirements immediately. Provisions have been included to exempt certain temporary conditions, like emergencies or historic properties, from compliance, indicating an awareness of practical limitations faced by local governments. Overall, the bill seeks to balance environmental objectives with operational realities in municipal management.