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BPU accepts Rutgers-backed study finding large-scale thermal energy networks feasible in New Jersey
Summary
The Board accepted a staff-commissioned Rutgers CUPR study concluding that large-scale thermal energy networks (geothermal heat pump systems) are technically feasible, can lower peak loads and emissions, and recommended the report be submitted to the governor and legislature as statutorily required.
The Board of Public Utilities voted Jan. 28 to accept the state's large-scale thermal energy network study and authorized staff to submit the report to the governor and a summary to the legislature, fulfilling a statutory requirement under recent state law.
Jesse, presenting staff findings, said the study—conducted with the Rutgers Center for Urban Policy Research—found that thermal energy networks (TENs) are technically feasible across multiple sectors in New Jersey and could deliver long-term energy savings, resilience benefits and emissions reductions. "Study further concludes that TENS can moderate rising winter peak loads associated with building electrification and reduce summer peak demand," Jesse said, arguing the networks could lower grid stress and defer costly capacity investments.
The study was prepared in response to a 2024 statutory requirement (cited in the record as P.L. 2023, c.328) that the board evaluate the feasibility, marketability, and costs of implementing large-scale geothermal heat pump systems. Commissioners asked whether comparable efforts in neighboring states would be included; Jesse confirmed Massachusetts and New York examples will be included in the study's legislative report.
The board approved staff's recommendation to accept and release the study for submission to the governor and legislature by roll call vote.
Next steps: staff will transmit the report to the governor's office and submit the statutorily required summary to the legislature; future board action could consider pilot programs, funding, or rulemaking based on the study's recommendations.
