State Senate President Steve Sweeney says 'foot-dragging' in the Christie administration may prevent New Jersey from taking the lead in the emerging wind power industry.

Sean Gallup, Getty Images
Sean Gallup, Getty Images
loading...

Sweeney says Governor Christie was on board with moving legislation along to promote and start up New Jersey's fledgling wind energy industry back in 2010.

But he complains the administration's Board of Public Utilities has not moved forward on regulations for this. Sweeney says a lot of other states are seeking to jump into the wind energy game.

"The problem is, his administration is dragging their feet and unfortunately, if we lose these opportunities , the only thing he (Governor Christie) can do is look in the mirror. Because that's who is going to have cost us all of these jobs."

Environment New Jersey joined Sweeney in promoting wind power, saying the recent storm emphasized the need for alternatives such as wind in reversing global warming.

Spokesman Matt Elliott says the storm that socked New Jersey on Oct. 30 has made it clear the State has much to lose if global warming isn't addressed head on.

In a new report released Wednesday, the advocates conclude that New Jersey will gain economically and environmentally if offshore wind production moves forward.

State Senator Linda Greenstein also attended the Statehouse event to advocate for the extension of Federal wind investment and production tax credits, which are set to expire at the end of the year.

More From New Jersey 101.5 FM