# New Jersey utility service and rate developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-jersey-utility-service-and-rate-developments
> Updated: 2026-09-09T22:02:18.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

In August 2026, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) extended the Summer Termination Program through August 31. This initiative prohibited electricity, water, and sewer companies from disconnecting services for eligible residents during peak summer heat.

By September 2026, utility developments shifted toward rate adjustments and corporate dividends. New Jersey American Water announced rate increases for water and wastewater services, effective September 15, to fund $1.4 billion in infrastructure upgrades such as replacing lead service lines. To offset these costs, eligible customers may receive monthly credits through the PFAS Litigation Universal Surcredit (PLUS). Additionally, New Jersey Resources Corporation increased its quarterly dividend to $0.50 per share, marking 31 consecutive years of increases.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-09: New Jersey utility companies announce dividend increase and rate adjustments

New Jersey Resources increases its quarterly dividend for the 31st consecutive year, while New Jersey American Water implements rate hikes offset by PFAS litigation credits for eligible customers.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-jersey-utility-companies-announce-dividend-increase-and-rate-adjustments

### 2026-08-14: New Jersey extends utility disconnection protections through August

New Jersey's Summer Termination Program protects eligible residents from utility disconnections for water, electricity, and sewer services through August 31.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-jersey-extends-utility-disconnection-protections-through-august

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Cite as: New Jersey utility service and rate developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-jersey-utility-service-and-rate-developments