Gov. Jon S. Corzine, D-N.J., has signed three pieces of legislation that will help support co-generation projects and the development of solar energy and wind energy installations.
‘The bills I am signing today will further our ongoing efforts to protect our environment to combat global climate change and make our state and nation less dependent on foreign energy sources,’ says Corzine. ‘A cleaner New Jersey means a better New Jersey and an even more attractive place for people to live, work, run a business and raise a family.’
Bill A1558/S2265 requires developers to offer solar energy systems in certain new home construction. It also provides that the Commissioner of Community Affairs, in consultation with the Board of Public Utilities, be required to adopt standards on the technical sufficiency of the solar energy systems to be installed. Bill A2550/S1299 permits the location of certain wind and solar facilities in industrial zones.
The Energy Master Plan (EMP) released last year aims to reduce energy usage by 20% by 2020, using efficiency measures and clean energy. The EMP also sets a goal of producing 30% of the state's energy from renewables by 2020.
SOURCE: Office of Gov. Jon S. Corzine