McKEON LAUDS ENERGY PLAN'S TWIN GOALS OF CLEAN POWER AND CONSERVATION

McKEON LAUDS ENERGY PLAN'S TWIN GOALS OF CLEAN POWER AND CONSERVATION

(WEST ORANGE) - Following Governor Jon S. Corzine's unveiling this morning of the state's long-range Energy Master Plan, Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee chairman John McKeon said the proposal not only passes muster for its focus on renewable, clean energy but for its spotlight on conservation.

"Producing enough clean energy for residents and businesses through renewable sources is only half the battle," said McKeon (D-Essex). "Placing equal importance on energy conservation is essential if we are to make New Jersey energy independent. We need to look at much more than just producing energy and take stock of how we consume it."

The master plan released today puts the state on a path to producing 30 percent of its overall energy needs through renewable sources -- such as wind and solar -- by 2020. In addition, it seeks to promote conservation measures to decrease overall demand for energy by 20 percent over that same timeframe.

McKeon said turning to renewable sources also would cut greenhouse-gas emissions and reduce overall demand for electricity produced by coal-burning plants located out-of-state.

"Looking to meet consumer needs through zero-emission and home-grown energy based on the wind and the sun is the environmentally responsible choice," said McKeon. "But just as important is ensuring that consumers do not waste energy. It would be a shame if the gains we make in reducing our reliance on electricity produced by burning fossil fuels are lost because we couldn't find it within ourselves to simply use less."

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