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.