SENATE ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 741

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 4, 2020

      The Senate Environment and Energy Committee favorably reports Assembly Bill No. 741. 

      This bill would establish in the Board of Public Utilities the New Jersey Fuel Cell Task Force. The purpose of the task force would be to develop a plan to increase the use of fuel cells in the State and to provide information, education, and resources for that purpose. In addition to developing the plan, the task force would:

      (1)  serve as a resource to State departments and local governments on fuel cell issues;

      (2)  assist in the growth of fuel cell businesses in the State;

      (3)  increase the use of fuel cells throughout State government;

      (4)  develop a strategy for the development of infrastructure to support the use of fuel cells; and

      (5)  provide informational materials and education to the public, government, and industry about the use and benefits of fuel cells. 

      The task force would consist of 15 members, including the Commissioner of Environmental Protection, the President of the Board of Public Utilities, the Commissioner of Transportation, the Commissioner of Community Affairs, the Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, who would serve ex officio, or their respective designees, and public members to be appointed by the Governor who are to represent stakeholders and experts.

      No later than one year after its organization, and annually thereafter, the task force would prepare and submit to the Governor and the Legislature a report detailing the task force's plan to increase the use of fuel cells in the State, including any recommendations for legislative or regulatory action that are necessary to effectuate the plan. 

As reported by the committee, this bill is identical to Senate Bill No.762, as amended and reported by the committee.