Smith Welcomes Governor’s Support of Clean Energy Plan

Trenton – Senator Bob Smith, the chairman of the Senate Environment and Energy Committee, welcomed Governor Murphy’s support of Senator Smith’s clean energy plan and praised the Governor for embracing other initiatives to promote renewable energy and advance a clean energy economy.

The Governor’s clean energy plan mirrors Senator Smith’s updated legislation, S-2978, that sets a goal of 100 percent clean electricity by 2035.

“Clean energy is vital to our future,” said Senator Smith. “This plan will put us on the path to achieve the goals of a clean energy economy that is critical for the environment, protects public health and supports the growth of job-creating, clean energy businesses. It’s a blueprint for progress that will help New Jersey make a smooth transition to clean, renewable sources of energy as we build a stronger economy.”

Senator Smith said he will continue to work closely with the Governor’s Office, the BPU and others on the multi-faceted efforts to achieve environmental sustainability and economic development.

Senator Smith also endorsed Governor Murphy’s executive orders establishing goals for the electrification of water heating and cooling systems, and having the Board of Public Utilities plan for the future of the existing natural gas infrastructure.

“The negative impact of greenhouse gases and air pollution will take an increasingly costly toll on public health, the environment, businesses and property,” said Senator Smith. “We can address these threats at the same time we take advantage of the opportunity to use new technologies to generate clean energy and support new sectors of the economy.”