This bill mandates the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to create a rebate program aimed at encouraging the purchase of zero-emission lawn equipment. The program will be funded through the societal benefits charge and will consider the environmental advantages of decreasing reliance on gas-powered lawn equipment. The BPU is tasked with determining the funding level for the program and calculating individual rebate amounts based on the purchase price of the equipment. The rebate structure is tiered: for equipment costing $250 or less, the rebate is 25% of the cost or $50, whichever is less; for equipment costing between $250 and $500, the rebate is 25% of the cost or $100, whichever is less; and for equipment over $500, the rebate is 25% of the cost or $150, whichever is less.
Additionally, the BPU is required to adopt necessary rules and regulations for the program and to promote the rebate availability similarly to how it advertises incentives for energy-efficient appliances through the New Jersey Clean Energy Program. The bill defines key terms such as "gas-powered lawn equipment," "lawn equipment," and "zero-emission lawn equipment" to clarify the scope of the rebate program. The act is set to take effect immediately upon enactment.