Climate Change Solutions Update

Tag: New Jersey

  • Lessons from launching New Jersey’s largest utility-led EV program

    PSE&G's Clean Energy Future Electric Vehicle Program in New Jersey has successfully expanded EV-charging infrastructure, incentivized customers to go electric, and strengthened grid reliability to support the state's clean energy goals. The program's evolution and growth have required flexibility, creativity, and collaboration to meet challenges and scale the team. Key lessons learned include setting achievable goals, investing in people, building bridges between teams, persevering through setbacks, and celebrating progress. By serving as a model for successful electrification efforts, the program demonstrates the potential impact utilities can have in addressing climate change through electrification initiatives.

    https://www.utilitydive.com/news/lessons-new-jersey-utility-ev-program-PSEG/806472/

  • Court upholds New Jersey’s landmark environmental justice rule

    In 2023, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection implemented a rule aimed at preventing pollution in low-income and communities of color, making it more difficult for industries like power plants to obtain permits in overburdened areas. Despite challenges from industrial groups claiming officials exceeded lawmakers' intent, a state appeals court upheld the rule. One contentious issue was the exclusion of job creation and economic activity as compelling public interests for developers seeking project approval. This decision highlights the ongoing efforts to prioritize environmental justice and address pollution disparities in marginalized communities.

    https://www.eenews.net/articles/court-upholds-new-jerseys-landmark-environmental-justice-rule/

  • Blue State Steps Up To Save Farmers With Solar Power

    New Jersey has launched a Dual-Use Pilot program to demonstrate the benefits of agrivoltaics, combining solar power and farming to maximize land use efficiency and provide new revenue streams for farmers. Rutgers University is leading the initiative, aiming to install 200 megawatts of solar power on farmland. Despite challenges like navigating state incentives and land conservation regulations, the program could lead to more farms adopting solar power in New Jersey. The state's innovative approach to solar development, including rooftop capacity and emerging trends like gas station and balcony solar, is helping progress towards renewable energy goals. Dual-use solar power offers a promising solution to support farmers and generate additional revenue while addressing the shrinking farm size in New Jersey.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2025/11/23/blue-state-steps-up-to-save-us-farms-with-solar-power/