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?
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?
- 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 LegislatureSep 9, 2026Allowing Solar Farms That Serve Multiple Purposes to Join Community Solar Programs
This law expands New Jersey's community solar program to include 'dual-use' solar projects—solar installations that serve two purposes at once, like generating electricity while also protecting farmland or providing shade for crops. Previously, only single-purpose solar farms could participate in community solar, which lets residents share the benefits of solar energy. This change makes it easier for more types of solar projects to serve more communities.
- NJ LegislatureSep 9, 2026Changes to New Jersey's Solar and Renewable Energy Incentive Programs
This law modifies how New Jersey's renewable energy incentive programs work and requires electric utilities to process applications for certain solar projects more fairly. The changes aim to streamline how people and businesses can get solar systems connected to the power grid. This law took effect in September 2026.
- NJ LegislatureSep 1, 2026Garden State Balcony Solar Act
New Jersey is making it easier for residents to install small, portable solar panels on balconies and patios by removing certain safety and zoning barriers. The law requires landlords, homeowner associations, and other property managers to allow tenants and homeowners to use these devices. This opens up solar power to people who rent or live in apartments and can't modify their roofs.
- 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.