New Jersey governor signs offshore wind, storage targets into law

The governor of New Jersey on Wednesday signed into law a Renewable Energy bill that codifies the state’s 3.5-GW offshore wind target and a goal for 2 GW of energy storage capacity, both to be achieved by 2030.

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) said this is the largest offshore wind commitment that any US state has made up to now.

Governor Phil Murphy also signed an executive order directing state agencies to develop an updated Energy Master Plan (EMP) for the state to get to 100% clean energy by 2050. The EMP, which will facilitate the implementation of the states Offshore Wind Strategic Plan, among other objectives, has to be completed by June 2019.

In addition to cementing offshore wind and energy storage targets, Renewable Energy bill S2314/A3723 also establishes a Renewable Energy Standard under which New Jersey will aim to source 21% of the energy sold in the state from Class I renewable energy sources by 2020. That share climbs to 35% by 2025 and 50% by 2030. A cap on costs is to ensure additional protections for consumers.

California, New York, Oregon, Hawaii, Vermont and the District of Columbia also have established 50% or greater renewable energy standards, while Maryland, Delaware and states in New England are currently considering such a move, AWEA said in a statement applauding the Garden State's clean energy ambitions.

S2314/A3723 also reinstates an expired tax credits programme in support of offshore wind manufacturing activities. It reforms the state’s solar programme and introduces a community solar energy programme.

Governor Murphy also signed bill S2313, which introduces a Zero Emissions Certificate (ZEC) programme to maintain nuclear energy supply.

New Jersey’s clean energy future is within reach if we start taking big, bold steps now.https://t.co/lar0krKduG

— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) May 23, 2018

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