Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Considered For Gloucester Twp.

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — Gloucester Township Council took the first steps on two alternative energy proposals at its meeting Monday night.

Council approved a proposed ordinance on introduction to add plug-in electric vehicle charging stations to its land development ordinance. It also voted to add a section concerning solar energy to its land development ordinance.

The ordinance regarding electric vehicle charging stations provides the general public with “adequate, convenient and safe locations” for charging stations, according to the proposal posted on the township’s website.

All land development applications that have at least 100 parking spaces will also be required to have at least one electric vehicle parking space for every 50 non-electric vehicle parking spaces, and spaces for charging stations will be included in the overall number of required spaces.

“Increased use of plug-in electric vehicles can facilitate reduction in air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and stormwater runoff contaminants,” the proposal reads. It also says it can “contribute to placemaking efforts that attract early adopters and demonstrate that the municipality embraces sustainability.”

According to drivegreen.nj.gov, the transportation sector accounts for 46 percent of the New Jersey's net greenhouse gas emissions, making it the largest emissions source in the Garden State.

The proposal was introduced the same week that an emergency was declared in New Jersey after a cyberattack prompted a major gas pipeline shutdown.

Drivers are seeing price increases at the pump as gas averages have increased at least 8 cents in many areas, according to the Automobile Association of America. Over the past week, New Jersey's gas prices have climbed 8 cents. Read more here: Shortages, Prices, Spikes Reported After NJ Gas Pipeline Shutdown

The solar energy proposal provides the opportunity for solar energy to be installed at homes, businesses and other public places throughout the township to “protect the public health, safety and welfare,” preserve environmentally sensitive land and open spaces and preserve the character of the environment.

Solar energy systems in association with a principle single-family and/or two-family residential will be exempt from township zoning permit fees.

There are solar panels on the roofs of the township’s schools, and BlueSky Power is involved in an 822kW solar project at Triton Regional High School.

Both proposals define terms, outline uses and set forth the review process for bringing them to the township. Public hearings and final votes on both proposals will take place at the May 24 council meeting.