NJ S686

Electric public utilities in New Jersey must obtain a certificate of public convenience and necessity from the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) before constructing new transmission lines or modifying existing ones.

The BPU must approve applications within 150 days (extendable by up to 75 days) after determining the project is necessary, represents the least-cost option, and the utility can manage construction and financing without adverse consequences.

Projects already approved by PJM Interconnection through a needs assessment are exempt from the certificate requirement.

Utilities must submit an application fee set by the BPU along with required project information, though confidential or proprietary data may be protected upon request.

The BPU's approval order must authorize construction and establish a specific timeframe for project completion.