Requires State to use certain energy-efficient outdoor lighting fixtures.
Impact
This legislation would require the state to install, replace, or maintain outdoor lighting fixtures under specific conditions, notably if the fixtures emit more than 1,800 lumens. It aims to implement cutoff luminaires, which reduce excess lighting directed upward or into the environment, thereby conserving energy and cutting costs over time. However, the bill does not mandate the replacement of functioning fixtures, focusing instead on fixtures that are inadequate or need installation after the bill's enactment. In this way, the bill seeks to maintain fiscal efficiency while addressing environmental concerns.
Summary
Senate Bill 2328, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, mandates the state to utilize energy-efficient outdoor lighting fixtures. The bill emphasizes the importance of minimizing unnecessary outdoor lighting, which it argues leads to wasted energy and financial resources. Citing negative impacts from unshielded lighting, such as light pollution and excess carbon dioxide emissions, the bill seeks to regulate outdoor lighting in a manner that both conserves energy and enhances environmental quality while ensuring utility and safety.
Contention
Notably, the bill specifies various exclusions where the state would not be required to adhere to these regulations, such as temporary lighting used for emergencies, special events, or historic properties. Concerns may arise regarding the flexibility of the law, especially among stakeholders who might be affected by stringent lighting regulations. Additionally, opposition or criticism might center on the balance between necessary lighting for public safety and conservation efforts, particularly among local agencies and municipalities that manage their own lighting needs.