New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2091

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Establishes "Zero Energy Construction Act"; requires all new residential and commercial developments to be zero energy ready; requires developers to offer zero energy construction.

Impact

The implications of A2091 will affect several areas of state law, including updates to the State Uniform Construction Code and energy subcode regulations. By requiring that all new buildings be 'zero energy ready,' the legislation acknowledges the growing necessity for sustainable construction in light of climate change. Through this legislation, the state is poised to significantly reduce energy consumption and promote environmental awareness while ensuring that new constructions align with modern energy efficiency standards.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2091, known as the 'Zero Energy Construction Act,' aims to mandate that all new residential and commercial developments be constructed as 'zero energy ready' starting January 1, 2025. A zero energy building is designed to consume only as much energy as can be produced on-site through renewable resources. The Act not only compels developers to offer zero energy options to prospective buyers, but also establishes a framework to incentivize energy-efficient construction practices. This initiative reflects a commitment to both reducing carbon emissions and lowering energy costs for homeowners and businesses.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed favorably by environmental groups and energy advocates, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implications for the construction industry. Critics may argue that the additional costs associated with modifying building practices could disrupt market viability or exclude certain demographics from potential homeownership due to increased prices. Additionally, the mandatory nature of 'zero energy ready' construction permits could be seen as an undue burden on developers, who may require flexibility to adapt to local market conditions.

Companion Bills

NJ S2302

Same As Establishes "Zero Energy Construction Act"; requires all new residential and commercial developments to be zero energy ready; requires developers to offer zero energy construction.

NJ A1440

Carry Over Establishes "Zero Energy Construction Act"; requires all new residential and commercial developments to be zero energy ready; requires developers to offer zero energy construction.

Previously Filed As

NJ A1862

Establishes "Zero Energy Construction Act"; requires all new residential and commercial developments to be zero energy ready; requires developers to offer zero energy construction.

NJ S3576

Establishes "Zero Energy Construction Act"; requires all new residential and commercial developments to be zero energy ready; requires developers to offer zero energy construction.

NJ SB434

Empowering New Energy Resources and Green Initiatives Toward a Zero-Emission (ENERGIZE) Maryland Act

NJ A4973

Establishes program in EDA to support construction of new nuclear energy facilities in State.

NJ S4383

Establishes program in EDA to support construction of new nuclear energy facilities in State.

NJ AB2464

Energy: firm zero-carbon resources.

NJ S667

Requires installation of smart thermostats in all new residential construction.

NJ A5136

Requires all new residential construction to have pre-installed sufficient raceways to allow post-construction broadband cable deployment.

NJ HB407

Relating to municipal and county requirements for solar energy device compatibility for certain residential construction; creating criminal offenses.

NJ LD1232

An Act to Require Radon Testing for Certain Commercial and Residential Construction

Similar Bills

NJ A1095

Requires detailed disclosure of information concerning required payments in lieu of property taxes to be provided to purchaser of real property constructed pursuant to financial agreement containing long term tax exemption.

NY A10099

Requires background checks and fingerprinting of certain construction contractors

NJ A1862

Establishes "Zero Energy Construction Act"; requires all new residential and commercial developments to be zero energy ready; requires developers to offer zero energy construction.

NJ S3576

Establishes "Zero Energy Construction Act"; requires all new residential and commercial developments to be zero energy ready; requires developers to offer zero energy construction.

MS SB2418

Home inspectors; allow to inspect new residential construction up to 14 days prior to close of sale.

NJ S2761

Changes earliest date of construction or rehabilitation of housing granted credits without controls.

IL SB0094

DATA CENTERS-FOREIGN OWNERSHIP

NJ S2430

Clarifies scope of affordable housing obligations.