© Shelley Mays / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK
(Jersey City, N) — Homeowners across New Jersey have been taking to social media platforms like TikTok to vent their frustration over incredibly high electric bills this summer. It’s always been understood that you pay a price each summer to keep your house cool, but some say this summer they have received bills that are double what they normally pay for power. So, what exactly is going on?
The utility companies say there are a lot of factors driving up costs right now. Several old fossil fuel power plants in New Jersey have shut their doors for good, which has drastically reduced the supply of electricity. There is an increased demand for power due to data centers, electric vehicle charging stations, and in many places the electrification of heating systems, and there are delays in connecting renewable energy projects, like solar and wind, to the grid.
Lawmakers say most of the blame for the high rates can be laid at the feet of electric supplier, PJM Interconnection. They say the company has failed in it’s mission to find new sources of energy generation. PJM is the largest regional transmission organization in the United States, managing the power grid and wholesale electricity markets for part or all of 13 states.
PJM officials were quick this week to respond to that accusation.
“We understand the political motive to shift blame for high electricity bills, but the fact remains: PJM operates as a not-for-profit that plans the power grid and administers federally regulated wholesale electricity markets,” “Pointing fingers will not solve the supply-and-demand realities driving higher prices for consumers in New Jersey, including challenges that stem from failed policies. Our focus remains on working toward real solutions, because New Jerseyans deserve nothing less.”
The high electric bills have become a big topic on the gubernatorial campaign trail in the garden state. Democratic nominee, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill says if she is elected in November she will use her executive authority to immediately freeze utility rates. She say she will then immediately begin working on solar and battery storage projects to help embolden the power grid. Republican nominee, Jack Ciattarelli says he will focus on increasing energy output from naturals gas and nuclear power.
Some help is on the way for New Jerseyans struggling with soaring electric bills. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has approved 100-dollar bill credits aimed at defraying the cost of electric rates. Last week, the board voted unanimously to reduce monthly residential electric bills by 50 dollars next month and another 50 dollars in October. The credits will apply to all ratepayers regardless of their income.
If you’re having a hard time paying your electric bill in New Jersey, you can ask for assistance from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. www.nj.gov/dca/dhcr/offices/hea.shtml You can also check out NJBPU , which is the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities website for assistance.
