At its Might 21 Agenda Assembly, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) authorized updates to grid modernization guidelines supposed to scale back delays within the distribution grid interconnection course of to hurry up the timeline for tasks to return on-line. The extra streamlined course of for distribution grid interconnection functions consists of: extra frequent updates to internet hosting capability maps; a dispute decision course of; a pre-application and verification course of to offer candidates with an early indication of undertaking feasibility and prices; and a requirement for utilities to have an online portal for a extra constant interconnection utility course of no matter service territory.
“The Board’s motion marks one other pivotal step towards modernizing the grid and making the interconnection course of extra environment friendly,” mentioned NJBPU president Christine Guhl-Sadovy. “Growing the variety of distributed power sources, together with new photo voltaic tasks, as rapidly as potential is a key part of our complete effort to drive down power prices for ratepayers and we’re delivering on that effort. At this time’s actions are years within the making and signify our dedication since Day 1 of this Administration to scale back utility prices and modernize our grid to fulfill the wants of all those that name New Jersey house.”
The authorized rule adjustments will make it simpler and allow extra distributed power sources (DER) to plug into New Jersey’s distribution grid. DERs — particularly photo voltaic and storage — that are among the least expensive and quickest sources to return on-line, scale back the height power forecasts for New Jersey. This in flip decreases the quantity of capability New Jersey wants to purchase, which in flip places downward strain on capability costs for all ratepayers, serving to get monetary savings by way of averted prices.
Steep will increase in costs spurred by PJM’s capability market are the principle reason for the elevated electrical energy prices New Jersey ratepayers will expertise this summer time. Deploying as many new producing sources like DERs as quick as potential is vital to serving to each preserve reliability and mitigate rising electrical energy payments. Moreover, these updates assist guarantee optimum security and reliability requirements as broader grid modernization efforts to construct a extra versatile and responsive grid happen.
Proactively updating the state’s grid modernization guidelines has been a multi-year endeavor. The up to date guidelines authorized as we speak replicate adjustments made following in depth stakeholder suggestions.
Information merchandise from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities
