TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has taken the next step in a proceeding aimed at holding Jersey Central Power & Light accountable for failing to meet the state’s electric service reliability standards.
The board announced Wednesday that it has advanced its Order to Show Cause proceeding against JCP&L, which was issued in August 2025 after the utility failed to meet the board’s Minimum Reliability Level standards during 2022, 2023 and 2024.
“New Jersey residents deserve safe, affordable, reliable electric service, and this proceeding reflects the Board’s commitment to holding utilities accountable when they fail to meet our standards,” said NJBPU President Ben Hertz-Shargel. “We will continue to closely scrutinize JCP&L’s performance, take corrective actions, and use every tool available to defend utility customers across the state.”
According to the NJBPU, the board has been engaged in ongoing discussions with JCP&L and the New Jersey Division of Rate Counsel to determine appropriate corrective actions.
The order approved Wednesday establishes Aug. 12 as the deadline for individuals or organizations seeking to intervene or participate in the proceeding. It also appoints Commissioner Christine Guhl-Sadovy to oversee the case.
The board said the proceeding is intended to ensure JCP&L provides the reliable electric service required under state regulations.
Separately, the NJBPU announced it is opening a review of electric utilities’ response to widespread outages caused by heat and severe storms during the July Fourth holiday period.
The board said it has received numerous complaints from customers and local officials regarding prolonged outages, extended estimated restoration times, inadequate communication with municipal officials and concerns about the adequacy of utility restoration resources.
As part of the review, each electric distribution company is required to submit a comprehensive post-event report within 20 days. Board staff will evaluate those reports, along with public comments, to determine whether utilities met performance expectations and whether additional regulatory action is warranted.
Any member of the public who was impacted by outages during the July 4th weekend and into the following week are encouraged to submit comments by clicking here to access the Docket and using the “Post Comment” button, or by emailing comments to Board.Secretary@BPU.NJ.gov and referencing Docket No. EO26070387.
RNJ has reached out to JCP&L for comment regarding the NJBPU’s action. This story will be updated if and when a response is received.
