NJ S93

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities must adopt standards requiring electric distribution lines to be placed underground in areas affected by major catastrophic events, wherever feasible

Applies to all new electric distribution lines installed after the bill's effective date, as well as lines installed, reinstalled, or repaired following damage from a major catastrophic event

"Major catastrophic event" defined as natural disasters (hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, ice storms, earthquakes, etc.) causing service interruption to at least 10% of customers in an operating area or triggering a state/federal emergency declaration

BPU must consider federal regulations, industry codes, engineering judgment, and utilities' ability to obtain municipal consent, easements, environmental permits, and rights of way when setting standards

Takes effect 90 days after enactment