Requires electric public utility to reimburse cost of certain customer-owned electric service equipment if damage to equipment is due to weather event affecting electric public utility service.
Impact
If enacted, AB 847 will amend existing legislation to ensure that electric utilities are held accountable for damages arising from weather-related events that interrupt their service. The definition of 'weather event' is broad and encompasses various occurrences like storms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters that could lead to power outages. This approach not only focuses on customer protection but also establishes a clear regulatory framework for addressing such issues through the Board of Public Utilities (BPU).
Summary
Assembly Bill 847 aims to require electric public utilities in New Jersey to reimburse customers for the full cost of their electric service equipment if that equipment is damaged due to a weather event affecting utility service. This includes situations such as power surges caused by downed distribution lines. The bill is significant in that it seeks to address the financial burden that customers may face when their equipment fails because of circumstances beyond their control, specifically those related to severe weather conditions.
Contention
There could be notable points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly regarding who bears the financial responsibility for damaged equipment. Some stakeholders may argue that utilities could face increased operational costs as they will be responsible for repaying customers for their equipment's damage, possibly leading to higher utility rates in the long run. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the adequacy of the investigation process set by the BPU to ascertain fault and the conditions under which reimbursements are made.
Implementation
The bill stipulates that the rules and regulations for reimbursement will be set forth by the Board of Public Utilities, providing a timeline for the bill's effectivity approximately 60 days post-enactment. This anticipatory administrative action suggests proactive planning on the part of the BPU to implement the bill effectively once it becomes law. Additionally, the detailed definitions included in the bill help lay the groundwork for consistent application and enforcement of its provisions.
Carry Over
Requires electric public utility to reimburse cost of certain customer-owned electric service equipment if damage to equipment is due to weather event affecting electric public utility service.