Karabinchak Bill To Study Wave, Tidal Energy Clears Assembly Panel

EDISON, NJ — A bill spearheaded by Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak (D-Middlesex) that looks to study the potential of wave and tidal energy was recently approved by the Assembly Special Committee on Infrastructure and Natural Resources.

The legislation (A-4483) proposes to conduct a study and create a pilot program for wave and tidal energy feasibility in New Jersey. Additionally, the FY23 budget allocated $500,000 in funds for a Wave and Tidal Energy Feasibility Study and Pilot Program.

“With almost 140 miles of coastline, NJ is in a unique position to be the leader in this growing field,” Karabinchak, an Edison resident said in a statement.

“This legislation seeks to set goals pertaining to wave and tidal energy in the State’s Energy Master Plan which bring the State one step closer toward achieving net-zero emissions and 100 percent renewable energy by 2050.”

The infrastructure and natural resource committee, which is chaired by Karabinchak, unanimously agreed to advance the bill which would require the state to add wave and tidal energy to NJ’s energy master plan.

States likes California, Oregon, and Hawaii have also created programs to explore the feasibility of wave energy.

“We cannot simply rely on one or two approaches for clean energy. With new technologies and advancements, we are able to produce much more efficient power systems that are environmentally friendly,” Karabinchak said.

“By introducing this bill, we will open the door for more legislation to follow suit and expand our renewable, clean energy capabilities.”

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