NEWARK – The New Jersey Utilities Association (NJUA) praised Gov. Phil Murphy’s announcement of $430 million in direct relief to lower the cost of energy bills for New Jersey residents.
All 3.9 million ratepayers in New Jersey will receive at least $100 in direct relief, while eligible low-to-moderate income New Jerseyans will see at least $150 more deducted from their energy bills, Murphy said today at an announcement in Newark.
The announcement came in anticipation of the utility rate increase that took effect on June 1, as New Jersey ratepayers face high wholesale electric prices, resulting in customer bills 20% higher than they were last summer.
“This is a short-term solution for the people of our state being battered by rising energy costs,” Murphy said. “Moving forward, we are going to work alongside BPU President Christine Guhl-Sadovy and our legislative partners to hold PJM accountable for the untenable and unconscionable costs they have forced on our state’s residents.”
The New Jersey Utilities Association (NJUA) is a strong supporter of initiatives that drive down the cost of electricity to customers, which includes the one-time utility bill credits announced today.
“The NJUA looks forward to working with the Governor’s office and all key stakeholders to expand energy affordability as we move into the peak summer months,” said NJUA President & CEO Richard Henning. “New Jersey continues to benefit from the strong working relationship between our state government and the utilities, as we address the rate hikes driven by higher supply costs stemming from the increasingly high demand on the grid.
It is also important to underscore that NJUA members offer assistance programs, and are committed to helping customers by expanding payment arrangements so customers have extended time to pay their bills, forgoing reconnection fees and proactively ensuring eligible customers are not shut off this summer because they are having trouble paying their utility bills.
“We urge these customers to reach out to their local utility to learn more,” Henning said.
Moreover, NJUA members are eager to share information about energy efficiency, focusing on ways in which customers can reduce usage and save money. The NJUA, and its members, regularly engage elected leaders and communities throughout New Jersey, holding workshops and other events that continually promote energy-saving practices.”
“Today’s announcement demonstrates what good governance is all about – delivering real results to those who call New Jersey home, and I'm proud of the work the NJBPU has done to make this historic rate relief announcement a reality,” NJBPU President Christine Guhl-Sadovy said. “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, with support from Senate President (Nick) Scutari and Speaker (Craig) Coughlin, we will continue to make affordability a priority for New Jersey utility customers.”
