Monroe Voices Support for BPU Audit of JCP&L, Demanding Improved Reliability from the Electric Utility
MONROE – July 8, 2021 – Monroe Mayor Stephen Dalina today voiced strong support of an audit of Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), which provides electricity to township homes and businesses.
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) is hiring a consultant to conduct a $1.47 million comprehensive audit of JCP&L, including a detailed examination of its management operations.
JCP&L has come under frequent criticism by Mayor Dalina and the Township Council in recent years, following its delayed attempts to restore power after storms. The issue hit a boiling point in Monroe last August when a forecasted tropical storm left many residents without power for days during the height of summer.
“Two of the ongoing issues in Monroe have been JCP&L’s response times and poor communication regarding restoration times. I fully expect this audit will reinforce what we already know: JCP&L must do better,” Mayor Dalina said. “As Tropical Storm Elsa moves up the East Coast and we anticipate the summer storm season, JCP&L must improve reliability and act expeditiously in service to its customers.”
Last August, Monroe officials wrote to BPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso to share the latest experiences with JCP&L. In the height of August, with no air conditioning and a state of emergency due to the pandemic, residents were left suffering for days on end, with food, medicine and other supplies spoiled during the lingering power outages.
Last October, JCP&L won approval of a rate increase of about $4 per month, roughly equal to collecting $94 million from ratepayers. In its approval, the BPU commissioners rightfully attached several conditions, ordering the utility to figure out how to greatly minimize power outages.
“JCP&L continues to take from the people of Monroe,” Mayor Dalina said. “Meanwhile, we continue to wait for this utility to finally give something back – in the form of reliable, accountable service.”
All media inquiries may be directed to the Monroe Township’s Public Information Officer Stacey Kennedy at 732-521-4400 or
###