Solar Energy on Road Shoulders Pilot Program
Official: A 2403 — Establishes pilot program for solar energy generation on roadside rights-of-way.
Reading: The bill creates a new solar energy generation pilot program on publicly owned or managed roadside property, expanding renewable energy infrastructure.
The bill was introduced in January 2026 and is being reviewed by the Assembly committee on telecommunications and utilities.
In clear language
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.
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 businesses that could benefit from cheaper solar-generated electricity
- Road maintenance departments that manage highway rights-of-way
- Solar energy companies looking to expand where they can build projects
- New Jersey residents who use electricity from the state's grid
What can you do?
- Contact your state representative to support or oppose the bill as it moves through the legislature
- Monitor for announcements about where the pilot program will be located once it's approved
- Learn more about solar energy benefits and reach out to your utility about clean energy options
Timeline
- 2026-06-04: Bill reported from Assembly Committee as a Substitute, advancing to 2nd Reading
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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.