Allow dual-use solar panels to join community solar programs
Official: A2524 — Permits dual-use solar energy projects to participate in community solar program.
Reading: Permits dual-use solar facilities to participate in the community solar program, expanding the scope of eligible technologies and participants in New Jersey's existing community solar policy.
The bill was substituted by another bill (S3939) in June 2026.
In clear language
This bill would let solar projects that serve two purposes—like panels on farmland that also allow farming underneath, or on parking lots that provide both shade and electricity—participate in New Jersey's community solar program. Community solar lets people who can't install rooftop panels buy a share of a larger solar array and get a credit on their electricity bill. The bill was substituted by another bill (S3939) in June 2026.
How does this affect you?
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Who does this affect?
- Homeowners and renters who want to benefit from solar energy but lack suitable roof space or own a home
- Farmers and landowners considering solar installations that don't completely take land out of agricultural or other productive use
- Community solar program developers and utility companies managing shared solar projects
- Low- and moderate-income households that rely on community solar to access renewable energy benefits
What can you do?
- Check with your local utility or community solar provider to ask if dual-use projects are available in your area once this policy is finalized
- If you own agricultural land or a parking lot, explore whether a dual-use solar project could generate income while maintaining other uses of the land
- Contact your state representative to support policies that expand access to community solar, especially for people who cannot install rooftop panels
Timeline
- 2026-01-13: Bill introduced
- 2026-06-04: Approved by committee with changes
- 2026-06-30: Replaced by substitute bill S3939
3 people have acted on this policy
Verified promises, sponsorships, votes, or other actions where the politician's record references this policy. Each entry links to that person's accountability page.
- Bill SpearmanDNew Jersey
- Bill sponsoredIn progressPrime sponsor of A2524: Permits dual-use solar energy projects to participate in community solar program.
- Clinton CalabreseDNew Jersey
- Bill sponsoredIn progressPrime sponsor of A2524: Permits dual-use solar energy projects to participate in community solar program.
- Heather SimmonsDNew Jersey
- Bill sponsoredIn progressPrime sponsor of A2524: Permits dual-use solar energy projects to participate in community solar program.
Related policies
- NJ LegislatureJun 30, 2026Allow solar panels that grow food or crops to join community solar programs
This law allows dual-use solar projects—solar panels installed on farmland or other areas where food and crops are also grown—to participate in New Jersey's community solar program. Community solar lets groups of people share the benefits of a single solar installation, lowering their electricity costs. This change opens community solar to more types of solar projects, expanding clean energy options across the state.
- NJ LegislatureJun 30, 2026Changes to New Jersey's solar and renewable energy incentive programs and utility rules
This bill modifies New Jersey's renewable energy incentive programs and requires electric utilities to process solar interconnection applications more fairly for certain projects. The bill was replaced by another version (S3183) in June 2026, so this version is no longer active.
- NJ LegislatureJun 30, 2026Changes to New Jersey's renewable energy programs and solar project approvals
This bill modifies how New Jersey incentivizes renewable energy and requires electric utilities to process solar project applications more efficiently. It updates existing renewable energy programs and streamlines the process for certain solar projects to connect to the electrical grid. The bill passed the New Jersey Senate with strong support.
- NJ LegislatureJun 30, 2026Garden State Balcony Solar Act
This law makes it easier for New Jersey residents to install small, portable solar panels on balconies and patios by removing certain regulatory barriers. It requires landlords, homeowners associations, and other property entities to allow tenants and residents to use and install these portable solar devices. The goal is to expand access to renewable energy for people who cannot install traditional rooftop solar systems.