Gov. Murphy signs package of clean energy bills in Seaside Heights visit

Gov. Phil Murphy visited Seaside Heights for a clean energy economy signing ceremony on Friday.

News 12 Staff

Jul 9, 2021, 10:24 PM

Updated 1,387 days ago

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Gov. Phil Murphy visited Seaside Heights for a clean energy economy signing ceremony on Friday.
The governor signed a four-bill package to encourage the development of electric vehicle charging stations and more solar power generation throughout the state.
Democratic members of the Legislature, along with Murphy believe more solar power and fewer fossil fuel vehicles are necessary to stave off the worst-case scenario of climate change.
“Clean air and meaningfully doing our part in the fight against climate change isn't just political - it's existential. Look at the science,” says Murphy. “There are few states expecting to be as impacted by climate change and by warmer temperatures and rising seas than New Jersey.”
One of the bills will make it easier for new electric vehicle charging stations to get approved.
“Much of the cost is retrofitting for this. While we look for the next generation of charging stations, we shouldn't have to dig up every parking lot,” says Assemblyman Dan Benson.
Another bill will make solar power projects on preserved farmland and allows working farms to be used to generate solar power.
“The panels are 12 feet high, as opposed to close to the ground, they're a little bit more spread apart and you use a farm now for two purposes,” says Sen. Bob Smith. “So, graze cattle, grow berries, do whatever you want underneath and at the same time generate clean solar electricity.”
Gov. Murphy put forth a goal to get the state to 50% clean power by 2030.