Atlantic County Times

Congressman Van Drew has called for the resignation of New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) board members following their decision to approve a 17% increase in electric rates. Van Drew criticized the NJBPU, stating, "The NJBPU has failed the people of New Jersey." He argued that instead of protecting consumers, the board focused on promoting a "Green New Deal agenda."

Van Drew highlighted that while the energy crisis in the state intensified, NJBPU members were more concerned with advocating for wind turbines. He claimed they wore political pro-wind pins during hearings and neglected to create beneficial energy policies for New Jersey residents. The congressman expressed concerns about substantial funds spent on what he described as failed offshore wind projects and rising utility bills.

He attributed the situation to years of inadequate state and federal policies. According to Van Drew, New Jersey previously produced surplus energy but now faces an energy deficit due to Governor Murphy's green energy mandates. He stated that these mandates forced ratepayers to bear additional costs and criticized the NJBPU for ignoring viable solutions like nuclear, solar, and natural gas. Additionally, he mentioned halted projects such as the B.L. England Power Plant and South Jersey natural gas pipeline.

Van Drew noted his collaboration with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to address auction rates at a federal level but accused state actions of undermining these efforts. Emphasizing unsustainability, he concluded by asserting that "New Jersey families deserve better" and called for new leadership within NJBPU.