By: Najla Alexander
Scotch Plains officials announced that the township is urging residents to attend a public meeting on Tuesday, September 30, at 7 p.m. regarding the development of a community energy plan (CEP).
The meeting, at Shady Rest Country Club at 820 Jerusalem Rd., will focus on local efforts to identify, map, and outline an action plan to advance sustainable and green initiatives to help meet the goals of the state’s Energy Master Plan, according to Scotch Plains officials.
“Through this effort, we are aiming to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions for a healthier environment now and in the future for Scotch Plains,” explained Councilmember Elizabeth Stamler, council liaison to the township’s Green Team.
Scotch Plains officials stated they were awarded a grant from the state Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to develop the plan. Municipalities that create a CEP are eligible to apply for additional state funding to help implement local projects outlined in their plans.
In addition, the township is circulating a five-minute survey to collect input from residents, business owners, and property owners regarding their current energy usage and their interest in adopting energy-saving measures, Scotch Plains officials stated.
Survey results will be incorporated into the final CEP, Scotch Plains officials said. Residents are asked to complete the survey prior to the Sept. 30 meeting.
“It is our hope that many members of our community can attend the upcoming meeting, as well as take the brief survey, as we work together to make Scotch Plains as energy efficient as possible,” Mayor Josh Losardo said.
“This is both a short-term and long-term planning effort to create a more sustainable community, focusing on energy resilience and renewable energy.”
Learn more about the state’s CEP grant program here.