(TRENTON) – Legislation Assembly Democrats Upendra Chivukula and Valerie Vainieri Huttle sponsored to allow more businesses to qualify for energy-related incentives and funding has been signed into law.
The law (A-906) requires the Board of Public Utilities to provide equal opportunity for prospective business applicants from all areas of the state to apply for and receive incentives for funding under programs the board determines will be funded by the societal benefits charge.
“All businesses, no matter where they’re located, should have access to this vital program that supports renewable energy and energy efficiency,” said Chivukula (D-Somerset/Middlesex), who chairs the Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee. “Helping businesses grow and prosper is the right thing to do as we battle through this difficult economy.”
Under former law, the BPU focused these incentive grants on designated growth areas, pursuant to the State Plan.
The new law directs the BPU to also make these grants available to parts of the state that are not specifically designated for growth.
“A map shouldn’t decide whether a business gets this vital help,” said Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen). “What should matter is whether energy-related incentives and funding offered by this program can spur business and job growth and boost our economy. Job growth and economic development is crucial throughout our state.”
