This bill establishes the Office of Energy Management within the Department of the Treasury, which will oversee the administration of all energy incentive and utility assistance programs in New Jersey. The State Treasurer is tasked with appointing a Director for this office, who will be responsible for managing its operations. The office will take over existing programs previously managed by the Board of Public Utilities, the Department of Community Affairs, and the Department of Human Services, as well as any new programs created after the bill's effective date. Additionally, the office is required to develop a common application platform for utility assistance programs, provide technical assistance to applicants, and coordinate with other state and federal agencies to facilitate the transition of program responsibilities.
The common application platform will enable applicants to identify available utility assistance programs, determine eligibility, submit required documentation, apply for multiple programs simultaneously, and monitor the status of their applications. By centralizing these programs, the bill aims to streamline administrative processes, reduce costs, and enhance the delivery of energy and utility services to the public. This restructuring will also allow the Board of Public Utilities to concentrate on its regulatory role, ensuring that utility customers receive affordable services.