New Jersey should continue to pursue a strategy of heavy reliance on clean energy to head off the state’s looming energy shortage, with no increase in natural gas generation, says outgoing Gov. Phil Murphy.

Two laws signed by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy aim to dramatically expand the state’s community solar and storage incentive programs as the state searches for new generation sources to help meet a predicted energy shortfall.

Federal funding disruption and a surge in electricity demand will require states to implement resource adequacy and financial support policies for new energy sources, speakers at an energy conference in New Jersey said.

Clean energy policies and their impact on rising utility rates are under scrutiny in New Jersey’s most competitive gubernatorial race in years as voters decide on a replacement for Democrat Phil Murphy, a champion of green energy.

New Jersey lawmakers pushed back on the state’s all-electricity, clean-energy strategy at a heated committee hearing, urging an all-the-above approach as PJM faced criticism for failing to foresee a dramatic hike in demand.

Christine Guhl-Sadovy, president of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, has a lot to do and little time to do it in.

With a goal of registering 330,000 EVs in the state by 2025, New Jersey has more than 215,000 EVs on the road. The state gained momentum in 2023, adding about 62,500 vehicles for a 68% year-over year jump in sales.