This bill amends existing laws regarding the monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in New Jersey, specifically targeting the responsibilities of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Board of Public Utilities (BPU). Key changes include the expansion of the definition of "greenhouse gas" to encompass nitrogen oxides and hydrogen, and the requirement for the DEP to calculate and report the global warming potential of emissions from significant sources using a 20-year time horizon. Additionally, the bill mandates that annual GHG reports be published within six months after the end of the reporting year and that the DEP monitor progress towards the 2030 GHG emissions objective established by Executive Order No. 274.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that significant indirect GHG emitters, such as those related to hydrogen, must report their emissions to the DEP. It also requires the DEP to contract with a satellite technology provider to enhance GHG emissions monitoring and reporting. The legislation clarifies that while state agencies may report global warming potentials using a 100-year time horizon when required by federal law or international treaty, they must also present this data in terms of a 20-year time horizon. Lastly, any studies or assessments related to GHG emissions conducted by state agencies must include methane and nitrous oxide emissions, as well as fugitive emissions and leakages.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2C-39, 26:2C-41, 26:2C-59