NJ·Bill·2024-2025 Regular Session
S 4811
Requires BPU, DCA, and DEP to establish expedited approval and permitting procedures for artificial intelligence data centers powered by small modular nuclear reactors.
Introduced 2026-10-15Last action 2026-10-15 — Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee
Sponsor
Diegnan, Patrick J.Republican
Cosponsors
Patrick Diegnan(Democratic)
⚫
Died in Senate committee
The 2024-2025 Regular Session ended on 2025-12-31. This bill was introduced when the session adjourned and did not advance to enactment.
Legislative Progress
✗
Introduced
2
In Committee
3
Passed Chamber
4
Enacted / Signed
Summary
This bill requires three New Jersey state agencies—the Board of Public Utilities (BPU), Department of Community Affairs (DCA), and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)—to create expedited approval and permitting procedures specifically for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers that are powered by on-site small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), which are advanced nuclear reactors with generating capacity between 50-300 megawatts. The agencies must develop these streamlined processes within 12 months, covering everything from site approvals and construction plan reviews to utility interconnections and environmental permits. The bill's primary purpose is to accelerate the development of AI data centers in New Jersey by reducing regulatory barriers and timeline delays, positioning the state to attract these facilities that require reliable, high-capacity power sources while promoting the use of next-generation nuclear technology to meet their substantial energy demands.
Note
Historical import. Session: 221
Full Bill Text
https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2024/S5000/4811_I1.PDF