A coalition of unions has recently formed in New Jersey under the banner Climate Jobs New Jersey, with ambitious goals to tackle the state's rising energy costs while fostering job creation in the solar sector.
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insideclimatenews.orgnow.solarThe initiative comes in response to significant spikes in electricity bills, which have increased by as much as 20 percent since June 2025, largely due to heightened demand from data centers and a reliance on off-grid power sources.
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insideclimatenews.orgThe coalition's primary objective is to implement a statewide solar and battery storage program that would empower New Jersey to regain control over its energy planning and reduce its dependence on external energy sources.
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insideclimatenews.orgCharlie Wowkanech, president of both the New Jersey AFL-CIO and Climate Jobs New Jersey, emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating, "We need to act quickly, and state generation is key to solving our problems." He noted that the proposed program could be operational within two years, representing a swift solution to enhance the clean energy grid and lower electricity prices.
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now.solarLegislative support for solar initiatives has already begun to materialize.In December, outgoing Governor Phil Murphy enacted "smart solar" permitting legislation aimed at streamlining the approval process for residential solar and battery storage systems.
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insideclimatenews.orgThis legislation mandates the creation of a digital permitting platform to facilitate rooftop solar installations, expected to be available statewide within 18 months.
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now.solarCurrently, New Jersey generates about 13 gigawatts of electricity daily, while consuming approximately 19 gigawatts, resulting in a significant portion of its power—about 20 percent—being imported from other states.
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insideclimatenews.orgThis situation has led to calls for a transition to more sustainable energy sources, as the state's electricity generation still heavily relies on natural gas and nuclear power, which together accounted for about 90 percent of its total generation in 2024.
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now.solarThe coalition's vision extends beyond just lowering energy costs; it aims to address broader economic and environmental issues.Researchers from Cornell University's Climate Jobs Institute have collaborated with labor leaders in New Jersey to develop a comprehensive roadmap for addressing climate change and economic inequality within the state.
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insideclimatenews.orgThe report outlines 14 recommendations, including the construction of 24.2 gigawatts of in-state, union-built clean energy by 2035, which would involve a significant increase in solar and offshore wind capacity.
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now.solarFurthermore, the initiative highlights the importance of job creation in the clean energy sector.An estimated 34,000 direct jobs could be generated through clean energy and building sector investments by 2030, with a notable portion designated for construction trades.
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insideclimatenews.orgThe coalition is also launching a six-week multi-trade pre-apprentice program aimed at training workers from underserved communities, including individuals who were formerly incarcerated.
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now.solarAna Maria Hill, vice president and New Jersey state director of 32BJ SEIU, stressed the need for climate action to be equitable and beneficial for working people, asserting that solutions should not shift costs to already vulnerable communities.
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insideclimatenews.orgAs New Jersey grapples with the realities of climate change—experiencing temperature increases of 3.5 degrees Fahrenheit since 1895 and facing challenges like rising sea levels and increased precipitation—the coalition's efforts represent a proactive approach to both environmental and economic resilience.
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now.solarMikie Sherrill has shown support for the coalition's objectives, having issued executive orders aimed at accelerating solar and battery project development and exploring nuclear energy's role in the state's energy future.
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insideclimatenews.orgHowever, challenges remain, particularly regarding offshore wind projects, where federal regulations have created uncertainties.
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now.solarIn summary, Climate Jobs New Jersey is positioned to be a transformative force in the state's approach to energy sustainability and economic development.By focusing on solar energy and battery storage, the coalition aims not only to reduce costs for residents but also to create a robust job market that prioritizes equity and community involvement in the transition to a cleaner energy future.
