NJ A5901

Allows transmission and distribution wires to cross preserved farmland in New Jersey when necessary to connect energy generation facilities to the electric grid, with approval from the State Agriculture Development Committee

Requires project applications to include detailed information about the proposed route, site plans, analysis of alternatives to crossing preserved farmland, and written approval from the farmland owner

Grants the Board of Public Utilities authority to file a letter or board order with the Committee explaining the public need for a project, which must be given deference in the approval process

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to approve applications within 30 days when the Board of Public Utilities determines a project serves the State's energy needs, though modifications may be required to minimize disruption to farmland

Maintains compliance requirements with other applicable laws, including Pinelands Protection Act standards for projects in the pinelands area