Hosted by Jeanette Hoffman and sponsored by the New Jersey Policy Institute. This episode looks at two issues shaping New Jersey’s energy future: AI data centers and energy affordability.

Mount Arlington Mayor Mike Stanzilis addresses concerns about electric bills, water use, local taxes, and what communities gain—or lose—if data center investment goes elsewhere.

Then, energy affordability and how it impacts New Jersey's diverse and underserved communities. Jeanette sits down with Matthew Gonzales, Vice Chairman of the National Hispanic Energy Council to talk about how high energy bills are impacting the families who can least afford them.

In this episode of Energy Matters, presented by New Jersey Policy Institute, host Jeanette Hoffman explores two forces shaping New Jersey’s future: local food systems and the energy demands of artificial intelligence. First, Joseph Lababrera of Warren County Community College discusses the Jersey Protein Initiative, a plan to raise livestock, process it, train the workforce, and sell protein right here in the Garden State. Then, MJ Durkin, COO of TechUnited NJ, examines AI’s potential to create more opportunity than it displaces. The conversation covers how New Jersey can support AI growth and data centers without overburdening ratepayers, the role of reliable power, benefits for small businesses, and the key policy choices needed to keep the state competitive.