New Governor Moves Fast to Curb Electricity Costs and Reform Energy Policy

Issue #583

January 21, 2026

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In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

 🌿New Governor Moves Fast to Curb Electricity Costs and Reform Energy Policy

🏖️ South Jersey Braces for Weekend Winter Storm with Heavy Snow, Arctic Cold

 👮Tough New E-Bike Law Sparks Debate Over Safety and Equity in New Jersey

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Shop Local

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 January 21

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New Governor Moves Fast to Curb Electricity Costs and Reform Energy Policy

In her first official move as New Jersey’s new governor, Mikie Sherrill signed a series of executive orders aimed at tackling soaring electricity costs, delivering on a campaign promise to freeze utility rate hikes. Speaking during her inauguration at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Sherrill outlined a plan to expand bill credits, pause new rate proceedings, and accelerate clean energy deployment across the state. Although the exact value of the credits hasn’t been finalized, they’re expected to vary based on electricity usage. A similar program launched last year under former Governor Phil Murphy offered $100 to most ratepayers and $150 to low-income households at a cost of about $430 million. Sherrill’s initiative is expected to exceed that total, reflecting broader ambitions. In addition to immediate financial relief, Sherrill’s orders signal a deeper shift in energy policy. One order instructs the BPU to consider lowering the societal benefits charge—a 3% fee on all electricity bills—and to restructure the Clean Energy Program to focus more directly on reducing customer costs and improving efficiency. The orders also direct regulators to examine utilities’ business models. While New Jersey's utilities don’t earn profits from selling electricity, they are allowed a fixed return (typically around 10%) on infrastructure investments. Sherrill's administration wants the BPU to assess whether those rates should be adjusted and to explore multi-year rate planning and tighter scrutiny of transmission projects. Additionally, the Department of Environmental Protection has been tasked with speeding up permits for capacity upgrades and efficiency improvements at gas-fired plants, aimed at stabilizing the grid while renewable projects come online. With electricity prices already up 20% from capacity auctions last year—and more increases looming in June—Sherrill’s orders mark a bold attempt to intervene before further hikes take hold.

 South Jersey Braces for Weekend Winter Storm with Heavy Snow, Arctic Cold

Forecasters are predicting a high likelihood of a major winter storm hitting South Jersey this weekend. According to the Cape May County Office of Emergency Management, confidence is growing in the likelihood of an “impactful winter storm” arriving Saturday night and continuing through Sunday night, possibly extending into early Monday. While exact snowfall totals and timing remain uncertain, the probability of six inches or more of accumulation is currently at 80% for deep South Jersey, including coastal communities, the bubble, notwithstanding.  A brief midweek warm-up will be followed by another drop in temperatures just as the snow arrives, making for potentially hazardous conditions into early next week.

 

Tough New E-Bike Law Sparks Debate Over Safety and Equity in New Jersey

Governor Phil Murphy has signed a new law making New Jersey one of the strictest states for e-bike regulations. The law requires e-bike riders to register their bikes, obtain a license, and carry insurance. It also bans online sales for one year and eliminates the old three-tier classification system. Supporters say the law is needed due to the rise in accidents, especially involving young riders. Critics argue it unfairly targets low-income and immigrant communities who rely on e-bikes for work and transportation.

What notable historical figure is honored by a museum in Cape May, New Jersey?

What notable historical figure is honored by a museum in Cape May, New Jersey?

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 Answer to the January 20th Trivia Question

In 1885, an unusual attraction was built in South Cape May—a large 'Lucy‑type elephant' structure called the "Light of Asia." What was its primary purpose?

A. A seaside amusement ride
B. A lighthouse guiding ships
C. A real estate office and observation pavilion
D. A restaurant and dance hall

Answer: C. A real estate office and observation pavilion

The "Light of Asia" was a large elephant-shaped building, similar to the more famous Lucy the Elephant in Margate. It was constructed in South Cape May in 1885 to attract potential land buyers, serving as both a real estate office and an observation deck overlooking the ocean.

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