Atlantic County Times

Today, Congressman Van Drew commented on the recent agreement between Pennsylvania and PJM Interconnection. This regional transmission organization manages electricity across 13 states, including New Jersey. The deal is seen as a small but necessary step toward curbing rising energy costs.

The agreement follows a complaint filed by Pennsylvania with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) against PJM in December 2024. It aims to prevent another significant rate increase and is expected to save consumers over $21 billion in energy costs over the next two years by reducing their price cap at auction. While this will not directly lower energy rates, it is intended to prevent further increases.

"This agreement with PJM is a good first step in addressing the burden of rising and unfair electricity costs in our region," stated Congressman Van Drew. He emphasized his office's efforts to hold utility providers accountable and ensure transparency in rate increases through legislative initiatives and direct engagement with FERC. "I urge FERC to extend similar scrutiny to New Jersey to ensure fair energy prices for all ratepayers."

Van Drew expressed relief at preventing an immediate rate hike but stressed that more action is needed. He called on the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) to control utility companies rather than approve every rate increase they request. "Instead of subsidizing failed wind turbines, we should have been prioritizing more reliable and sustainable sources like nuclear and solar energy," he said.

He also urged New Jersey to review all state-mandated charges on utility bills, arguing that residents cannot afford inflated bills funding state coffers or unsuccessful green energy projects. "It is time we focus on practical, cost-effective solutions that will benefit the people of our state," Van Drew concluded.