TRENTON, NJ — Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) criticized Governor Phil Murphy’s newly announced executive actions on energy policy Wednesday, accusing the administration of recycling failed strategies while ignoring the real drivers of rising electricity costs in New Jersey.
“The Governor’s latest plan misses the mark,” Bucco said. “It doubles down on the same failed renewable energy mandates that have driven up costs and weakened grid reliability.”
Bucco took issue with the timing of the plan, arguing that it delays the financial impact of higher utility bills until after the upcoming election. He characterized that element of the proposal as “a pure political gimmick.”
The Governor’s actions aim to address rising electricity prices through regulatory adjustments and support programs. However, Bucco claims the programs overlook middle-class families and fail to address systemic issues related to energy affordability and supply.
Bucco renews push for balanced energy strategy
Bucco reaffirmed his support for an “all-of-the-above” energy approach that includes natural gas, nuclear, and renewable sources. He said only a diversified energy strategy can ensure affordability, reliability, and long-term sustainability.
In March 2024, Bucco introduced the Energy Security and Affordability Act, designed to lower energy costs and protect consumers from future rate increases approved by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU).
“You can’t have it both ways,” Bucco said. “New Jersey won’t attract new investment in energy generation until we fix our business climate, reduce over regulation, and stop pushing extreme, one-sided energy mandates.”
Bucco has consistently argued that the state’s energy challenges stem from policy decisions that discourage investment in reliable sources such as natural gas while over-relying on intermittent alternatives.
