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SJR 162

Memorials, Recognition - Dr. Charles Edward Dudley, Sr. -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Charlane Oliver

Designates March 21 as Renewable Energy Day in New Jersey to raise awareness and promote equitable access to renewable energy, with an annual gubernatorial proclamation.

Signed by Governor.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · SJR 162

Summary of SJR 162 (New Jersey)

Overview

  • Type: Joint Resolution
  • Title: Designates March 21 each year as “Renewable Energy Day” in New Jersey
  • Status: Introduced in the Senate; referred to the Senate Environment and Energy Committee
  • Introduced: May 12, 2025
  • Subject: Commemoration; Renewable Energy

Purpose and Intent

SJR 162 designates March 21 every year as Renewable Energy Day in New Jersey. The resolution aims to promote awareness of renewable energy’s role in the state’s energy future, emphasize equitable access to renewable energy, and encourage public participation in related activities and programs.

Key Provisions

1) Designation
- March 21 of each year is designated as “Renewable Energy Day” in New Jersey.

2) Proclamation Request
- The Governor is respectfully requested to issue an annual proclamation calling upon public officials, citizens, and other groups to observe Renewable Energy Day with appropriate activities and programs.

3) Effective Date
- The joint resolution takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Context and Rationale (as presented in the introduced version)

  • New Jersey has a growing renewable energy sector, notably in solar power. In 2023, NJ was the 12th-largest U.S. producer of electricity from solar energy, per the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
  • By December 2024, New Jersey reached five gigawatts (GW) of installed solar capacity, more than double its 2017 level.
  • The EIA projects renewables could supply about 44% of U.S. electricity by 2050.
  • The state has a policy goal (signed into law in 2018) that 50% of energy sold in New Jersey come from renewable sources by 2030.
  • The resolution highlights equity considerations, noting that socially vulnerable populations bear disproportionate climate-related harms, and it emphasizes expanding equitable and affordable access to renewables.
  • It also notes potential economic benefits, including job creation in engineering and manufacturing to support a growing renewables sector.

Who/What Would Be Affected

  • Public officials, state agencies, and the general public in New Jersey would be urged to observe Renewable Energy Day through programs and activities.
  • The resolution itself does not impose new regulatory requirements or funding obligations; its effect is commemorative and promotional.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • As introduced, the bill has been referred to the Senate Environment and Energy Committee.
  • If enacted, the proclamation would be issued annually by the Governor, reinforcing ongoing observance each March 21.
  • Being a joint resolution, it designates an observation rather than creating new substantive law or funding.

Potential Impact

  • Raises awareness about renewable energy and equity in energy access.
  • Encourages educational, community, and industry-related activities related to renewable energy.
  • Aligns with New Jersey’s broader policy goals to expand renewable energy generation and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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