This bill establishes the Office of the Energy Generation Ombudsman within the Department of Treasury, aimed at supporting energy producers in New Jersey. The Ombudsman will provide resources and assistance regarding energy generation regulations, facilitate dispute resolution between state agencies and permit applicants, and develop best practices for energy project permitting. The Ombudsman will be appointed by the Treasurer and will oversee a range of duties, including offering guidance on navigating laws, monitoring permit processing, and gathering feedback from energy producers about challenges in the permitting process.
Additionally, the bill mandates that state agencies prioritize the review and approval of permits for projects that increase electricity production. This includes a wide array of environmental and construction-related permits. The Ombudsman is also required to submit an annual report to the Governor and Legislature detailing the services provided, along with recommendations for improvements to existing laws and policies related to energy generation. This initiative aims to enhance energy efficiency and expand energy generation across the state.