This bill establishes the Division of Energy Resource and Development within the Department of the Treasury, transferring various responsibilities from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to this new division. The division will be led by a Director appointed by the Governor, who will oversee energy efficiency programs, clean energy initiatives, and related functions. The bill outlines the director's powers, including appointing staff and developing rules consistent with existing laws. It also specifies that all energy policy responsibilities currently held by the BPU, including electric vehicle incentive programs, will be transferred to the new division, ensuring that the rights of current employees are protected during this transition.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to enhance the state's efforts in promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It establishes an Energy Business Ombudsman within the Division, tasked with assisting businesses with energy costs and available state programs. The bill also sets specific goals for the adoption of electric vehicles and their charging infrastructure, mandates the installation of solar energy systems in new developments, and creates an Energy Master Plan Committee to oversee energy production and conservation strategies. Overall, the bill aims to streamline energy management in New Jersey while enhancing the state's commitment to environmental sustainability and equitable access to energy resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2C-45, 26:2C-46, 26:2C-47, 26:2C-51, 26:2C-55, 26:2C-56, 26:2C-59, 26:2C-68, 46:3C-15, 48:2-92, 48:2-93, 48:2-94, 48:2-95, 48:2-96, 48:2-97, 48:2-98, 48:3-60, 48:25-2, 48:25-3, 48:25-4, 48:25-5, 48:25-6, 48:25-7, 48:25-8, 48:25-11, 48:25-12, 52:27D-141.4, 52:27D-141.7, 52:27D-141.9, 52:27D-141.11, 52:27F-11, 52:27F-14, 26:2C-8.58