New Rules for Community Solar Energy Programs in New Jersey
Official: Proposed Amendments: N.J.A.C. 14:8-9.1, 9
Reading: The amendments expand and restructure the Community Solar Energy Program through multiple rule revisions and new rules, strengthening the framework for distributed solar development.
The updates aim to make it easier for more residents to access solar energy without installing panels on their own homes.
In clear language
New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities is updating rules for community solar programs, which allow groups of people to share the benefits of a single solar energy system. These changes update how community solar projects are set up, managed, and who can participate in them. The updates aim to make it easier for more residents to access solar energy without installing panels on their own homes.
How does this affect you?
Pick the type of resident or organization you most identify with — we'll generate a plain-language breakdown of what changes for you and what you can do about it.
Who does this affect?
- Residents who want to benefit from solar energy but cannot install panels on their own property
- Solar energy companies and developers creating community solar projects
- Utility companies that manage the distribution of energy from community solar systems
- Renters and people in apartments who have limited ability to install their own solar systems
What can you do?
- Look for community solar programs in your area that you can join to receive discounts on your electricity bill
- Contact your local utility or visit the NJ Board of Public Utilities website to learn if a community solar project is available in your neighborhood
- Provide feedback during public comment periods if you have questions or concerns about how these programs work
Timeline
- 2023-09-18
In the press
Governor Murphy applauded New Jersey's community solar program as a response to rising energy costs, according to NJ Spotlight News coverage.
Coverage retrieved automatically from major and NJ outlets. Links go to the original reporting; the summary above draws only on these headlines.
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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