Requires certain electric public utilities to file emergency response plan with BPU.
Impact
The bill establishes standards of acceptable performance for emergency preparedness and service restoration that utilities must adhere to. It allows the BPU to investigate any utility that fails to meet these standards, either on its own initiative or following petitions from government officials or affected municipalities. Violations can lead to significant penalties, including fines reaching up to $10,000 per day per violation, further incentivizing compliance and diligence in emergency preparedness.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 2358, introduced in the New Jersey 221st Legislature, mandates that certain investor-owned electric public utilities file an emergency response plan with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU). This plan must outline procedures for restoring service after widespread outages caused by factors like severe weather. The bill aims to create a standardized approach to emergency management within the state's electric utilities, ensuring that they are prepared to effectively respond to emergencies and maintain communication with customers.
Contention
One notable aspect of SB 2358 is its emphasis on accountability and the financial repercussions for utilities that neglect their responsibilities during emergencies. The bill outlines that any fines imposed will go into a non-lapsing fund administered by the BPU, designated for maintenance grants to municipalities impacted by outages. This potentially contentious feature highlights the balance between regulatory oversight and enabling local governments to manage infrastructure risks effectively. The implementation of these standards and penalties could lead to debates about the operational capabilities and financial practices of the utility companies involved.
"Reliability, Preparedness, and Storm Response Act;" requires public utilities to file certain information concerning emergency preparedness with BPU and increases certain penalties.
"The Reliability, Preparedness, and Storm Response Act of 2020"; requires public utilities to file certain information concerning emergency preparedness with BPU and increases certain penalties.
"The Reliability, Preparedness, and Storm Response Act of 2020"; requires public utilities to file certain information concerning emergency preparedness with BPU and increases certain penalties.
Requires BPU to establish best practices and to assess electric public utilities' compliance with BPU best practices during BPU's review of rate increase.
Requires BPU to establish beneficial building electrification program and requires electric public utilities to prepare and implement building electrification plans.
Requires BPU to establish best practices and to assess electric public utilities' compliance with BPU best practices during BPU's review of rate increase.