Governor Murphy Leading on Clean Air and Climate Change Solutions in New Jersey

(December 17, 2018) Following through on his pledge to lead on climate change solutions, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s Department of Environmental Protection today released two draft rules designed to facilitate the state rejoining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).

RGGI is a successful market-based program that will ensure declining carbon pollution from the power sector while also helping provide economic gains for New Jersey.

“As New Jersey moves to cleaner energy sources, Governor Murphy’s strong commitment to environmental protection and economic development is critical. Rejoining neighboring states in cutting carbon pollution — with reductions consistent with those needed to stabilize the climate — will help New Jersey get back on track in addressing climate change, while creating economic opportunities,” said Mary Barber, Director of New Jersey Clean Energy for Environmental Defense Fund.

“With the Trump administration failing to deal with climate change, New Jersey and other states can help lead the United States toward a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous future. We look forward to evaluating the details of today’s proposals during the upcoming public comment period, and working with the Murphy administration to help New Jersey regain a leadership role in the region,” said Barber.

Governor Murphy signed an Executive Order in January that started the process to enable New Jersey to rejoin RGGI.

Today’s proposals are available here. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is accepting public comments through February 15 both online and by email.