Debate Over New Jersey’s 2024 Energy Master Plan: Affordability & Reliability at Risk?

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, New Jersey’s 2024 Energy Master Plan (EMP) is under scrutiny as officials and stakeholders voice concerns over its all-electrification strategy. At a recent New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) public stakeholder meeting, industry leaders, including NJBIA Deputy Chief Government Affairs Officer Ray Cantor, warned that the plan could lead to higher energy costs and a less reliable power grid.

Concerns Over Energy Affordability & Grid Reliability

Ray Cantor criticized the plan for repeating past mistakes, stating:

“We support decarbonization, but when those goals dictate policy, we end up with unaffordable energy rates and an unreliable grid.”

He emphasized that middle-class families and businesses are struggling with high energy costs, not just low-income residents. Cantor also warned against following the footsteps of Germany and the UK, which have seen economic setbacks due to energy policies that weaken industrial growth.

Senator Testa: “Energy Disaster Plan” Must Be Scrapped

State Senator Michael Testa (R-1) strongly opposed the plan, arguing that it would lead to higher costs, inefficiency, and a lower quality of life. He called for the complete removal of the plan, stating:

“While I support a cleaner environment, affordability must not be sacrificed. We owe it to New Jersey ratepayers to provide reliable, cost-effective energy.”

The Case for Natural Gas & Energy Diversification

Cantor and other stakeholders argue that natural gas should play a key role in ensuring energy reliability. He pointed out that:

✅ Natural gas power plants in NJ produce fewer emissions than the PJM grid, which relies on out-of-state coal power.
✅ Expanding natural gas generation can quickly address resource adequacy issues.
✅ While renewables like solar and offshore wind should be part of the energy mix, the state must focus on what works today to support businesses and manufacturing.

Market-Driven Energy Solutions

Cantor also challenged the affordability claims behind the EMP, particularly regarding electric vehicles (EVs):

“If EVs and other electrification options were truly more affordable, the market would drive the transition—just as it has already reduced carbon costs.”

What’s Next for NJ’s Energy Future?

As debates continue, the 2024 Energy Master Plan’s future remains uncertain. While supporters advocate for clean energy expansion, critics argue that affordability and reliability must come first.

What do you think? Should New Jersey prioritize electrification, or take an all-of-the-above energy approach that includes natural gas? Share your thoughts below!

 

Tell your story #TheRidgewoodblog , #Indpendentnews, #information, #advertise, #guestpost, #affiliatemarketing,#NorthJersey, #NJ , #News, #localnews, #bergencounty, #sponsoredpost, #SponsoredContent, #contentplacement , #linkplacement, Email: Onlyonesmallvoice@gmail.com