Casting doubt
The report also doubts the costs associated with electrifying homes and buildings and replacing natural gas or propane with electric heat pumps. The EMP puts the cost to switch at $7,500 per replacement, but in Massachusetts, the cost to convert to electric heat pumps cost homeowners roughly $23,000.
In addition, the report questioned whether the state can electrify its transportation system fast enough to meet EMP goals, which aim to get 330,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2025. New Jersey will need a 900% increase in EV sales to achieve that goal, according to the report. The administration has maintained the goal and timeline are attainable.
“In moving ahead with the EMP, the administration and lawmakers must strike a balance between moving to an inexorable reliance on renewables for sustainability’s sake, and the economic burdens that New Jerseyans already bear,’’ Egea said.
“So much of this remains unanswered. These are the vital questions of residents and business owners alike that, until answered, should preclude any action of the EMP’s major elements until — at the least — the essential cost analysis is finished and publicly communicated fully so residents and businesses can respond,’’ she added.
The BPU did not respond to a request for comment.