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The basics:

• Energy costs rank among the top financial pressures on NJ families, author says
• Hispanic households are disproportionately affected by rising utility bills
• Opinion urges rejection of punitive energy policies that raise consumer costs
• Calls for a balanced, all-of-the-above energy strategy focused on affordability

As New Jersey looks toward 2026, no issue weighs more heavily on working families than the rising cost of everyday living. Energy prices are a central driver of that pressure. A recent survey by Upswing Research & Strategy found that more than half of voters statewide identify energy costs as one of the most persistent financial burdens they face. That strain is felt especially acutely in Hispanic communities, where household budgets are often tighter and energy costs consume a larger share of monthly income. Energy affordability was a defining issue in the recent gubernatorial race and will be an early test for Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill and lawmakers in Trenton.

With new leadership in place, New Jersey has a chance to reset its approach and pursue policies that bring real relief to families. That begins by rejecting punitive proposals modeled after New York’s experimental climate “superfund” law. While these policies may generate attention, they impose steep new fees on energy producers that inevitably get passed on to consumers. Higher utility bills hit Hispanic households hardest, particularly those living in older housing stock or working in energy-dependent industries. These measures do nothing to lower costs and send a troubling signal to employers and investors considering New Jersey.

A more constructive path forward starts with acknowledging which energy sources have delivered both emissions reductions and affordability. Over the last two decades, natural gas has played a leading role in lowering U.S. emissions while keeping energy reliable and reasonably priced. Yet some policymakers have attempted to sideline it for political reasons, despite its continued importance in stabilizing the grid as demand grows. Ignoring this reality does not advance climate goals — it increases costs for consumers and forces investment out of state. Communities already facing economic pressures, including many Hispanic families, are left paying more for basic necessities.

‘Clear lessons for New Jersey’

Across the Northeast, the drawbacks of rigid, experimental energy mandates are becoming increasingly evident. Massachusetts is reassessing aggressive renewable targets as costs escalate and timelines slip. In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul has acknowledged the need for additional natural gas infrastructure to ensure grid reliability and prevent further price spikes. These experiences offer clear lessons for New Jersey. Policies that fail to balance ambition with affordability ultimately harm the very residents they are meant to help.

Energy policy should not be framed as an all-or-nothing choice. New Jersey has the opportunity to lead by embracing an all-of-the-above strategy that supports renewables while also recognizing the value of other reliable energy sources. Such an approach is essential for keeping the lights on and bills manageable, especially for working-class and Hispanic households that are disproportionately affected by energy price volatility.

Energy policy should not be framed as an all-or-nothing choice.

New Jersey has long been defined by practicality and innovation rather than ideology. A balanced energy framework strengthens grid resilience, attracts private investment and supports good-paying jobs — many of which are held by Hispanic workers in construction, manufacturing and energy-adjacent sectors. By contrast, punitive policies raise costs, delay infrastructure improvements, and push jobs and investment elsewhere, leaving families with fewer opportunities and higher bills.

Gov.-elect Sherrill made energy affordability a central theme of her campaign. Honoring that commitment means creating a level playing field for all energy sources that can help reduce costs while meeting environmental goals. When policymakers ground energy decisions in economic reality and consumer needs, the benefits extend to every community in the state.

New Jersey can demonstrate that environmental responsibility and affordability are not mutually exclusive. By encouraging innovation rather than punishing investment, the state can ensure reliable, reasonably priced energy and protect communities that are most vulnerable to rising costs.

That should be the goal for 2026 and beyond. New Jersey has the opportunity to get this right — by strengthening the economy, safeguarding the environment and ensuring that no community, including Hispanic residents across the state, bears an unfair share of the cost of misguided energy policy.

Julio Fuentes is the chairman of the National Hispanic Energy Council.