Updating the State's Energy Master Plan Presents Specific Set of Challenges

NJTV NEWS

The state of New Jersey is doing a full revision of it's Master Energy Plan for the first time in 27 years. The goal is to become a completely clean energy state by 2050. The plan also calls for efforts to reduce the overall usage of energy and increase efficiency.

The challenge is how to do it. Politicians continue to draw from the Clean Energy Fund to help balance the budget. Businesses need to be convinced of the benefits to making buildings energy efficient. What's the fairest way to balance rewards so that lower income efforts are still incentivized?

Recently, the state committee who is tasked with creating the energy master plan heard testimony from multiple stakeholders to gather more information. Solutions included tax incentives and improving the energy consumption of household items.

Environmental consultant Wayne DeFeo gave testimony about the importance of guiding business and individuals through the process. DeFeo offered evidence of the benefits and cost savings realized by detailing the difference in energy bills his clients saw after energy reviews.

The committee for the New Jersey Energy Master Plan will hold three more hearings on the topic.