Today the New Jersey Puerto Rico Commission is proud to announce eight recipients of $200,000 in grants for energy resilience projects, located in Puerto Rico. Over the next year, the Commission will diligently communicate with grant recipients on the Island and stakeholders to oversee a diverse array of projects. Funds from this grant will be used to enhance independent energy sources within emergency shelters and response services, community buildings, and organizations with power life support tailored to populations of seniors and individuals with disabilities/chronic medical conditions.
Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the Commission in her role as Secretary of State, stated "The efforts of the Puerto Rico Commission are crucial in building bridges and engaging in mutually beneficial endeavors. This grant is integral to our comprehensive strategy and commitment to fostering growth and partnership."
The 35-member bi-partisan New Jersey Puerto Rico Commission was first established in the wake of Hurricane Maria with a law signed by Governor Murphy on January 9, 2020. The Commission’s purpose is to strengthen ties and promote collaboration between New Jersey and Puerto Rico in areas such as culture, economy, and community support.
“Thank you, Governor Phil Murphy, for your steadfast support of the New Jersey Puerto Rico Commission. A special thank you as well to Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way for your unwavering advocacy and partnership. Gracias to all our friends, allies, and legislators for your continued activism—you are all truly part of our extended family. Today, with the awarding of this $200,000 inaugural alternative energy grant, I am proud that we are taking meaningful steps to support not only our fellow citizens here in New Jersey, but also our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico. This is unity in action—rooted in purpose, powered by progress. It is an honor to serve as Chair of the New Jersey Puerto Rican Commission. I take great pride in our vibrant traditions, our diverse ancestry, and the shared journey that binds us.” said NJPRC Chairwoman Peggy Anastos.
In 2018, the pre-statutory Utilities Committee of the exploratory New Jersey-Puerto Rico Relief Commission reported and recommended that New Jersey could significantly enhance Puerto Ricans' quality of life by supporting efforts to stabilize and improve the island's electrical system. This grant is the product of research and needs assessments of the Island’s top priorities, with a focused mission of providing continuation of services and independence from the grid system.
“I’m proud of the Commission’s work to launch the alternative energy grant program in addressing a critical infrastructure issue that has plagued Puerto Rico for decades. An unpredictable grid impacts the island’s businesses, hospitals, schools and disrupts everyday people’s lives. These funds will serve to make a positive difference especially during the summer months where usage is at an all time high and will further strengthen the State’s role as a critical partner to Puerto Rico.” expressed Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez.
The awardees were determined via an independent review process facilitated by the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development. However, the Commission established the guidelines and objectives for the grants, including the prioritization of vulnerable populations in rural geographical locations and proposals using NJ manufacturers.
"As a proud Boricua, witnessing the evolution of a bill born in the wake of tragedy to tangible change for Puerto Rico is a testament to our resilience and commitment as a State." added Senator Nilsa Cruz Perez, who along with Assemblywoman Lopez, sponsored the founding legislation establishing the Commission.
“Congratulations to the eight awardees of the New Jersey Puerto Rico Commission’s inaugural alternative energy grant,” said Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco. “This investment in reliable, independent energy sources is a vital step for community organizations in Puerto Rico to continue serving their neighbors, despite the unpredictability of the energy grid. These projects will strengthen vital services, support education, and ensure programming can continue uninterrupted. I’m proud to support these efforts as a member of the Commission and help deliver real, lasting impact for communities in need.”
"We are pleased with the substantial progress already achieved in fostering productive relationships across all levels of government and industry. This initiative marks another pivotal step in advancing our collaborative efforts," said Eliot Tricotti, Policy Advisor for the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration and NJPR Commissioner representing the Government of Puerto Rico.
The grant recipients include a diverse group of organizations that have demonstrated a strong commitment to creating positive change within Puerto Rican communities and area expertise; they are:
"These grants are supporting projects that are transforming what recovery looks like in Puerto Rico. Solar energy is becoming a lifeline for innovative and sustainable practices" said Commission Member Sam Kanig.
This grant combines forward-thinking, environmentally friendly alternatives with great flexibility, providing realistic avenues for funding.
“This significant initiative marks a powerful stride toward bolstering energy resilience in Puerto Rico and reflects our unwavering dedication to community empowerment. Congratulations to the eight remarkable awardees whose innovative projects are set to make a real and lasting impact. I am eagerly looking forward to witnessing the positive changes they will bring to our communities,” added Commission Member Rosemarie Matos.
The CHPRD's selection process ensured that the grants are allocated to organizations that have a proven track record of effectiveness and a clear vision for the projects they intend to undertake located on the Island.
The NJ Puerto Rico Commission looks forward to continuing its mission to embrace, uplift, and support Puerto Ricans. To learn more about the Commission: prc.nj.gov
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