Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco issued the following statement renewing his call for a pause on the Murphy administration’s extreme energy master plan after Orsted announced they would be delaying their offshore wind projects until 2026.

Sen. Anthony Bucco renewed his call for a pause on the Murphy administration’s extreme energy master plan after Orsted announced they would be delaying their offshore wind projects. (Pixabay)

“Orsted’s recent announcement makes it abundantly clear that the offshore wind projects were rushed based on political talking points. Not only did Governor Murphy disregard concerns about the environmental impact of offshore wind surveys, but he also showed no concern about the practical costs of implementing the project long-term. Orsted’s announcement is another red flag that the Governor’s extreme energy master plan is misguided, and taxpayers will pay the price for his poor judgement.”

We need to step back and reevaluate this overly expensive energy master plan. Orsted’s offshore wind farm delay is further proof that this project is unsustainable and not in the best interests of New Jersey utility customers. The price tag and the risks associated with Orsted’s project is too much of a burden for taxpayers. Legislators must return to Trenton and do their job to provide oversight of Murphy’s extreme energy policies to prevent taxpayers from footing the bill any further.”