Detailed Narrative
Winter Operations & Reliability
PSE&G successfully navigated a harsh winter with extreme weather events, including significant snow and subfreezing temperatures. The utility's winter readiness procedures ensured timely storm response, restoring service to most affected customers within 24 hours. This performance highlights the importance of continued investment in gas infrastructure modernization to address aging systems and extreme weather impact🌐s.
Customer Affordability Initiatives
PSEG is actively working with the Governor's office and the New Jersey BPU to keep electric and residential natural gas rates flat in 2026. Electric customers will benefit from a 1.8% reduction in supply costs starting June 1, and residential gas bills remain among the lowest in the region. FERC's ruling reallocating PJM transmission costs is also expected to result in over $100 million in refunds to PSE&G customers.
Energy Efficiency & Demand Response
PSE&G is expanding technology-driven conservation efforts, launching a demand response program with over 32,000 residential and small business customers enrolled for upfront payments. A new residential time-of-use rate leverages AMI investments to encourage off-peak usage. These initiatives, combined with energy efficiency programs, aim to reduce energy consumption, manage bills, and support a flexible energy grid.
New Nuclear Development
Governor Sherrill signed legislation lifting a decades-long moratorium on new nuclear construction, with PSEG actively engaging in efforts to advance new nuclear development at its Salem County site. The site's unique strengths, including an early site permit, logistics, skilled workforce, and operational expertise, position it as a leading candidate for new nuclear deployment, with PSEG advocating for federal and state support.
PJM Market Dynamics & Reliability
PJM's proposed reliability backstop procurement auction, intended to accelerate dispatchable generation by 2031 for data center-driven load growth, is being closely monitored. PSEG is advocating for customer protection regarding cost allocation and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to resource adequacy, while noting the 2031 timeline presents significant challenges for new generation.
Regulatory Business Model Review
The BPU has initiated a process to examine the regulation of the electric distribution utility business model, with a consultant study expected this summer and a stakeholder process continuing throughout the year. PSEG intends to fully engage, welcoming discussions on performance metrics where its utility has demonstrated strong reliability, customer satisfaction, and connection capabilities.