"Grid Reliability Protection Act"; prohibits State agencies from decommissioning electric generation facilities in State under certain circumstances.

The "Grid Reliability Protection Act" (S 4561) prohibits New Jersey state agencies from mandating or incentivizing the shutdown of existing power plants connected to the state's grid, except under specific conditions. It requires two key conditions before decommissioning: (1) PJM Interconnection’s written certification that the shutdown won’t harm grid reliability or increase energy costs, and (2) a public rate impact analysis by the Board of Public Utilities showing no material cost increase for ratepayers. The bill allows immediate shutdowns only if a plant poses an immediate public health or safety risk due to structural damage or hazardous conditions. It also mandates 12 months’ public notice before any proposed shutdown, ensuring transparency. The law directly affects current power plants, state agencies, and ratepayers by preventing premature closures that could threaten grid stability.