NJ Gov. Sherrill Declares Energy Emergency, Moves to Rein In Electric Rates

The Democratic governor’s plan includes both blocking utility rate hikes and accelerating the development of new power generation.

New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill delivers remarks at her election night watch party in East Brunswick, N.J., on Nov. 4, 2025. Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/Getty Images

Newly inaugurated New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill spent her first minutes in office signing a pair of executive orders, both aimed at addressing the rapidly rising utility costs in the state.

The first order allows the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU), which regulates the state’s electric companies, to block utilities from increasing electric bills.