Measure Would Build Needed Alternative Fuel Infrastructure in State
TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Shirley K. Turner and Senator Linda Greenstein that would aid in New Jersey’s transition to electric vehicles was approved today by the full Senate.
“For too long New Jersey has lagged behind in the transition to make alternative fuels more accessible, making us more reliant on unclean energy,” said Senator Turner (D-Hunterdon/Mercer). “This is why it is imperative that we continue to establish innovative and creative strategies that will ensure a clean and healthy environment for our residents. Providing easy access to alternative fuels for electric vehicles is the first step in the process. This measure does just that by creating needed alternative fuel infrastructure on highways and freeways.”
The measure, S-2782, would require the New Jersey Turnpike Authority to install electric vehicle charging stations at no fewer than four rest areas on the New Jersey Turnpike and no fewer than four rest areas on the Garden State Parkway. The Turnpike Authority would be required to spread out the stations between the northern, central and southern regions of New Jersey to increase the recharging services throughout the state. The bill would also require the South Jersey Transportation Authority to install electric vehicle charging stations at two rest areas on the Atlantic City Expressway.
“Alternative fuel vehicles are the new forms of transportation for residents looking to save energy and money,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “Yet, for those looking to make the switch, they might find it difficult to do so because of the limited refueling stations on the road. This bill would help to solve this issue by requiring the Turnpike Authority and the South Jersey Transportation Authority to install recharging stations on freeways and highways. Ultimately, with these stations in place, we can help improve our state’s roads and highways and jumpstart our alternative fuel industry.”
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, an estimated two-thirds of oil consumed in the U.S. is used for transportation. The National Conference of State Legislatures reported that approximately 93 percent of the fuel used in the transportation sector comes from petroleum.
The bill was approved with a vote of 25-3. It now heads to the Assembly for consideration.
