Renewable energy transition – why NJ needs 80% electricity by 2050 from renewables
Until recently, New Jersey was a leader in the United States in renewable energy, and in solar in particular. New Jersey ranked second in the amount of solar installed, behind only California. Unfortunately, in the past few years, as a result of failed public policy, New Jersey has lost its leadership ranking and thousand of jobs in the solar industry. New Jersey needs more solar to regain those lost solar jobs, promote the economy, and reduce the pollution and adverse health effects that come with the burning of fossil fuels.
New Jersey has fossil fuel and nuclear power plants that are at or near the end of their useful lives and scheduled for closure. It is a perfect time to commence a transition to a renewable energy future by ramping up solar and wind to take the place of new fossil fuel or nuclear plants.
Through long-term planning, the entire energy industry can start pointing at incremental milestones that will bring us eventually to an energy sector where most of our electric power is generated by clean, renewable, non-polluting sources.
We need to establish a requirement of 80% of electricity by 2050 generated by such renewable energy. By setting this requirement now, we will give every market participant reasonable notice and opportunity to plan and succeed. And it gives potential investors the incentive to support the effort and commence the transition.
Tags: Mr. Sustainable, renewable energy, renewable energy transition, sustainable energy
