New Jersey lawmakers are considering a controversial “pay now, power later” bill that would force ratepayers to fund a new nuclear plant a decade before it generates a single electron. (New Jersey Monitor)
The sticker shock: The proposal would tack a mandatory charge onto bills to cover construction costs, potentially adding $22–55/month to residential bills and 5 figures for industrial users, for at least 10 years while the plant is being built.
The timing: It’s a bold move for a lame-duck session, especially since incoming Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill just won election on a platform promising to freeze utility rates.