Ocean City Links with State Clean Energy Program

OCEAN CITY – As energy prices rise and the fight against climate change continues, communities like Ocean City are working with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and New Jersey’s Clean Energy ProgramTM to increase energy efficiency and use of renewable resources throughout the township.
According to a release, with the help of rebates and incentives from New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program, Ocean City has implemented several initiatives that have improved the energy efficiency of its municipal facilities and homes.
“Now more than ever, energy efficiency and clean energy solutions are critical in helping communities handle the increased cost of powering residences, businesses and municipal buildings,” stated Jeanne M. Fox, BPU president.
“We’re here to help with a host of services, incentives and programs available through New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program. It’s a way for communities to become a part of the state’s goal of reducing overall energy use 20 percent and using 20 percent renewable energy by 2020,” she added.
Ocean City’s biggest achievement to date is the installation of solar electric panels on several city buildings including its cultural center, sports and civic center, new public works complex, aquatic center, police garage and vehicle maintenance facility. New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program has provided nearly $1.5 million in solar rebates through the Customer On-site Renewable Energy (CORE) program to help pay for the installations. The solar panels will provide a total of 550,000 kilowatt-hours of energy, saving Ocean City approximately 17 percent off yearly electricity requirements for the buildings.
New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program, through the New Jersey SmartStart Buildings Program, also provided a $1,750 rebate for energy efficiency upgrades to the heating system at city hall; and the city plans to complete an audit of all municipal buildings, looking at energy efficiency improvements such as installing compact fluorescent light bulbs, thermostat controls, winter weatherization, faucet aerators, motion detector lighting and ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances.
“We are thrilled by the support that we have received from the Board of Public Utilities in our pursuit for clean energy alternatives in Ocean City,” said Mayor Sal Perillo. “By working with the BPU and New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program we will reduce our energy costs and harmful carbon emission.”
Additionally, Ocean City has committed to helping the state promote its clean energy programs by becoming a CleanPower community partner earlier this year and is currently exploring the feasibility of wind power on the south end of the island.
“All levels of government could benefit by following the lead of Ocean City,” stated Commissioner Nicholas Asselta. “The potential for energy alternatives can greatly reduce resident supported utility bills, while contributing to clean air initiatives at the same time.”
For information about incentives and programs offered through New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program, visit NJCleanEnergy.com or call 1-866-NJSMART (1-866-657-6278).