New Jersey residents are reeling from soaring energy bills that have doubled, prompting calls for accountability from state officials. State Sen. Mike Testa slammed Gov. Phil Murphy’s “Energy Master Plan,” blaming it for the crisis. Homeowners in Morris County expressed shock over skyrocketing bills, with one resident facing a $782 monthly charge.
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) offered potential reasons for the rate hikes, citing increased generation costs and usage. Rep. Jeff Van Drew demanded a public hearing to address constituents’ concerns. Despite the turmoil, the Murphy administration praised its Energy Master Plan’s goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2050.
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Amid the crisis, PJM data revealed a surge in electricity demand due to data centers and retirements of thermal generators. The situation prompted concerns from lawmakers like Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz. Testa emphasized the importance of a diversified energy portfolio and criticized excessive reliance on green energy initiatives.