The recent spike in energy costs in New Jersey has sparked debate over the state's energy policies. Former Board of Public Utilities Commissioner Mary-Anna Holden has attributed the increase to the Murphy administration's focus on electric-centric energy policies. In an op-ed published in the USA Today News Network, Holden criticized the administration for moving away from natural gas and nuclear power before fully advancing solar and wind energy.
Holden expressed concern over what she sees as a lack of fact-based planning, stating, "The truth is that this state’s energy policy has gone off the rails." She urged leaders to prioritize real-world physics and economics over political incentives and artificial deadlines. Holden advocated for revisiting the Energy Master Plan, reconsidering electrification mandates, and supporting a balanced mix of energy sources, including natural gas and nuclear power.
New Jersey's Energy Master Plan aims to achieve 100% clean energy by 2035 through offshore wind, solar expansion, and other efficiency programs. However, Ray Cantor, Deputy Chief Government Affairs Officer at NJBIA, had previously predicted supply and demand challenges resulting from these policies. Cantor remarked: "From the day the EMP was announced, we have continuously warned that creating policies that set artificial deadlines for actions...will result in much higher energy prices."
Cantor continues to urge state leadership to adopt a comprehensive approach to energy generation that includes natural gas and nuclear power alongside renewable sources. He emphasized the need for realistic strategies rather than ideological ones.
To read Holden’s full op-ed, click here.
