Allow solar panels that grow food or crops to join community solar programs
Official: S3939 — Permits dual-use solar energy projects to participate in community solar program.
Reading: The bill expands the community solar program by permitting dual-use solar facilities (which combine solar generation with other land uses) to participate, thereby broadening clean energy deployment pathways.
This change opens community solar to more types of solar projects, expanding clean energy options across the state.
In clear language
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.
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?
- Farmers and landowners who want to install solar panels while continuing to grow crops or raise livestock on the same land
- Community members who subscribe to community solar programs and want access to more solar project options
- Developers and solar companies building solar projects that combine energy production with agricultural use
- Utility companies that manage community solar programs
What can you do?
- If you own or manage farmland, look into whether a dual-use solar project could work on your property and generate income for your farm
- If you subscribe to or are interested in community solar, check with your utility or local solar provider about new dual-use solar projects becoming available in your area
Timeline
- 2026-03-12: Bill introduced in Senate
- 2026-06-30: Passed by Senate (40-0)
- 2026-06-30: Passed by Assembly (78-1-0)
One person has 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.
- Andrew ZwickerDNew Jersey
- Bill sponsoredIn progressPrime sponsor of S3939: Permits dual-use solar energy projects to participate in community solar program.
Related policies
- 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.
- NJ LegislatureJun 4, 2026Solar Energy on Road Shoulders Pilot Program
New Jersey is creating a test program to install solar panels on the land alongside highways and roads. This would generate clean electricity from areas that aren't currently used for much else. The bill is still being debated in the state legislature.