NJ S2287

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) must conduct a feasibility study on requirements for new and replacement electric distribution utility poles and transmission towers within six months of the bill's effective date

Study will evaluate requiring concrete, steel, or fiberglass-reinforced composite poles instead of wood, as well as higher classes of wood poles and upgraded transmission tower grades

BPU must assess increased height requirements for poles supporting transformers and standards for foundation design, embedment depth, and advanced engineering installation methods

Purpose is to determine infrastructure improvements needed to withstand severe weather events including hurricanes, cyclones, floods, tornadoes, snow storms, and ice storms

BPU must consult with other states using these materials/standards, consider National Electrical Code and ANSI requirements, and evaluate costs to ratepayers, municipalities, utilities, and the State