Bill > A5898

This bill requires the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to conduct a comprehensive study on advanced transmission technologies (ATT), which are software or hardware solutions designed to improve the efficiency, reliability, and capacity of electric transmission infrastructure. The study will evaluate various ATT, including grid enhancing technologies, advanced conductors, and power flow control technologies, with the goal of helping electric utilities safely and cost-effectively meet growing energy demand. Specifically, the BPU must assess how these technologies can increase transmission capacity, reduce grid congestion, support renewable energy integration, improve system reliability, and potentially lower infrastructure costs and project timelines. The board will be required to hold at least two public stakeholder meetings, analyze ATT deployment strategies from other deregulated energy markets, and identify ways to streamline ATT implementation. Within one year of enactment, the BPU must submit a detailed written report to the Governor and Legislature, which will be publicly published, highlighting the study's findings and potential recommendations for advancing ATT deployment in New Jersey. The bill is motivated by projections of rising energy demand, aging transmission infrastructure, and the potential for advanced technologies to provide quicker and more cost-effective grid improvements compared to traditional infrastructure projects.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5898