South Jersey Gas announced last week that the company received approval from the N.J. Board of Public Utilities for the largest energy efficiency program in company history.
The $307M energy efficiency program consists of $167 million of direct investment, $125 million in financing options and $15 million in operation and maintenance expenses. South Jersey Gas officials say it will provide increased energy and cost-saving opportunities for residential, commercial and industrial customers.
The new program cycle will begin Jan. 1, 2025, and run through June 30, 2027.
South Jersey Gas is a subsidiary of South Jersey Industries.
SJI Utilities President Melissa Orsen said SJI and its subsidiaries remain committed to providing safe, reliable, affordable energy to its more than 735,000 natural gas customers throughout the state.
“By prioritizing energy efficiency, we aim to provide customers with energy-saving tools and resources that help reduce emissions and drive positive environmental outcomes,” she said. “In line with the NJBPU and the New Jersey Clean Energy Act, we are committed to making significant strides in championing a cleaner energy future for the state.”
The program positions South Jersey Gas to meet or exceed its annual energy consumption reduction targets set by the New Jersey Clean Energy Act, Orsen said.
The programs include rebates and on-bill repayment options for energy efficiency equipment upgrades, an efficient products marketplace featuring discounted smart thermostats, free weatherization measures for moderate-income customers, and tailored solutions for commercial and industrial customers.
Fully subscribed, the program could help customers save $221 million in energy costs and over 80 million therms over its lifetime, which equates to preventing the release of over 467,000 tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere – the same as removing over 100,000 cars from New Jersey roadways for a year.
Since 2009, South Jersey Gas has invested more than $220 million in energy efficiency programs, the company said.
South Jersey Gas President Brent Schomber obviously was thrilled.
“South Jersey Gas is proud to unveil the expansion of our energy efficiency programs, underscoring our commitment to helping our customers manage energy usage and save money,” he said. “This initiative is designed to provide practical, cost-effective solutions that will not only help lower energy bills for our customers, but also contribute to a reduction in emissions; fostering a more sustainable future for our communities and our environment.”
