What’s Happening

The transportation sector contributes more than 40% of New Jersey’s greenhouse gas emissions. Within the transportation sector, more than 70% of climate pollution comes from passenger cars and trucks. A key strategy to decarbonize this sector is to accelerate the transition to a zero-emission vehicle fleet. 

Leaders across public and private sectors must act with greater urgency to curb the growing climate crisis. To benefit all New Jerseyans, companies should support Gov. Phil Murphy’s proposed adoption of the Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) rule.

At Ciel Power LLC, an energy efficiency contractor, we have experienced the transformative benefits of transitioning from internal combustion vehicles to electric vehicles in our growing fleet. We added three EVs to our fleet since purchasing our first in 2019, with the most recent acquisition last month. The advantages of EVs are clear: reduced maintenance, operating costs and environmental impacts. They offer the best-in-class safety ratings, continuous improvements through regular software updates and a thrilling driving experience — all of which benefit our employees’ safety and well-being. Our EV fleet is also a highly effective workforce recruiting and retention tool.

The proposed ACC II rules would require manufacturers to sell an increasing percentage of new zero-emission cars and light-duty trucks in New Jersey, with the goal of 100% of new vehicle sales being zero-emission or plug-in hybrids by 2035. Yes, it’s ambitious, but it is necessary to significantly reduce emissions and pave the way for cleaner transportation and improved air quality throughout the state.

NJ is lagging

New Jersey currently lags more than 10 states that have already proposed or adopted ACC II rules. If New Jersey fails to adopt ACC II this year, the state risks falling further behind in achieving its clean transportation goals.

Consider ChargEVC’s 2020 report, which highlights the benefits of full-market vehicle electrification and provides valuable insights into the advantages of EV adoption. The conclusion: Electrification would deliver nearly $100 billion in net benefits to New Jersey residents by 2050, with cleaner air benefiting everyone, including those who don’t yet drive EVs.

By pairing EVs with other renewable energy sources, like household solar systems, owners can further decrease operating costs and increase energy independence. This integration of clean energy technologies not only reduces fueling and maintenance expenses for EV owners but also applies downward pressure on electricity rates when grid impacts are proactively managed.

Estimates show that vehicle electrification will be nearly $140 billion less expensive than the continued purchase and use of traditional gas-powered vehicles, making the transition to EVs an increasingly attractive option for individuals and businesses alike.

New Jersey needs to catch up with our neighboring states that have already proposed and adopted these rules so we can put EVs at the center of an environmentally responsible and economically sound future with cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

As a business that has experienced the advantages of EVs firsthand, we at Ciel Power LLC wholeheartedly support Gov. Murphy’s proposed ACC II rules. We urge fellow New Jersey residents, businesses and community leaders to join us.

Together we can make a meaningful difference in the fight against climate change and advance a cleaner, greener future for generations to thrive.