Hancocks Bridge, N.J. – April 21, 2025 – Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli toured the PSEG Nuclear Salem and Hope Creek generating stations in Salem County on Monday, commending their role in producing 40% of New Jersey’s electricity and employing over 1,600 workers.
During the visit, he announced plans to overhaul the state’s energy policy if elected governor in 2025, criticizing Gov. Phil Murphy’s approach as costly and impractical.
Ciattarelli targeted Murphy’s Energy Master Plan, which prioritizes renewable energy, calling it unrealistic and blaming it for rising utility bills. He also opposed Murphy’s offshore wind projects along the Jersey Shore, describing them as ineffective.
Instead, Ciattarelli proposed expanding the capacity of natural gas-fired power plants, building new ones, and boosting nuclear energy production to ensure affordable and reliable electricity.
The Salem and Hope Creek stations are major sources of New Jersey’s power, generating significant carbon-free electricity.
Ciattarelli’s focus on natural gas and nuclear aims to address concerns about energy costs while maintaining reliability, contrasting with Murphy’s push for wind, solar, and other renewables to meet clean energy goals.
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Ciattarelli’s visit highlights energy as a central issue in his campaign, appealing to voters frustrated with increasing utility bills. He positioned his plan as a practical alternative to Murphy’s policies, emphasizing job preservation and energy stability.