Introduced 5/19/2025
A bill to establish a three-year geothermal energy pilot program in New Jersey, allowing gas public utilities to replace aging or leaking natural gas pipelines with geothermal energy infrastructure. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities is tasked with overseeing the program, which includes evaluating infrastructure plans submitted by utilities based on project size, cost, benefits, and financial impact on ratepayers. Utilities can recover project costs through rates charged to customers. The board must report annually to the Governor and Legislature, with a final report determining whether to expand the pilot into a permanent program. The bill also amends existing law to include geothermal energy within the definition of 'public utility.' The program is set to expire 30 days after the final report unless extended. The bill aims to promote renewable energy adoption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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