Governor Mikie Sherrill today signed significant legislation aimed at holding utility companies and data centers accountable, while simultaneously announcing immediate bill credits to provide relief to millions of New Jersey households. These actions, combined with the Sherrill Administration's efforts over the past six months, are projected to save New Jersey ratepayers more than $1 billion annually, according to Synapse Energy Economics.
The three bills enacted include the Repeal ROE Adder (S1673 / A2757), which eliminates unnecessary utility incentives that inflate electricity costs. The Advanced Grid Technologies Act (S4411 / A5188) strengthens state oversight of utility infrastructure investments to prevent wasteful spending and promote smarter grid upgrades. Lastly, the Data Center Fair Share bill (S731 / A796) ensures large data centers contribute equitably for energy use, preventing cost shifts to families and small businesses.
In addition to legislative measures, Governor Sherrill announced a $25 credit for all 3.6 million New Jersey ratepayers through the Residential Universal Bill Credit (RUBC) program. An extra $150 credit will be provided to lower- to moderate-income families via the Residential Energy Assistance Payment (REAP) program, offering timely support as summer approaches.
"I made a commitment to rein in energy costs, and today we are delivering on that commitment," said Governor Sherrill. "For too long, New Jersey families have paid the price for poor oversight, outdated policies, and rising demand on our electric grid by unchecked actors. Today, we're putting money back into people's pockets while holding utility companies and large data centers accountable through stronger oversight and smarter incentives that will drive down costs and strengthen our grid."
The Governor also highlighted other initiatives by the Board of Public Utilities, such as renewing the Summer Termination Program to protect vulnerable households from utility shutoffs during extreme heat. Furthermore, 12 new solar projects were approved, capable of generating clean electricity for approximately 45,000 homes. These steps build on the administration's broader energy affordability agenda, which includes freezing electric rate hikes, advocating for a price collar on PJM, and expanding community solar programs.
The new laws are expected to drive down costs and strengthen the state's energy infrastructure, positioning New Jersey for a more affordable and reliable energy future.