New Jersey will ease rules for small plug-in solar devices

Utilities cannot require prior approval, device fees, or added equipment. Covered devices are exempt from grid connection agreements and net metering rules, which govern credits for electricity sent to the grid. The exemptions cover movable solar devices and related equipment with a maximum output of 1,200 watts, located on the customer's side of the electric meter. Devices must connect through a standard 120-volt outlet, mainly offset the customer's electricity use, meet recognized testing standards, and prevent power from reaching the grid during outages. Combined output at one service address or apartment cannot exceed 1,200 watts without a grid connection agreement. Installation must follow applicable safety rules. Devices sending 400 watts or less to the outlet are exempt from requirements to alter buildings, wiring, or electrical panels. All devices must follow applicable 2029 National Electrical Code provisions once New Jersey incorporates them into its construction code. These rules start March 1, 2027, six months after enactment. The Board of Public Utilities may prepare before then.

Landlords and housing associations must allow covered solar devices, while retaining reasonable control over their size and placement. The landlord rule protects tenants responsible for their rented space's electricity bill, including leased balconies and patios. Housing association rules protect unit owners and tenants using devices on their unit's exterior. Landlords may set reasonable size and placement restrictions, require safety compliance, and prohibit placement outside the rented space. Housing associations may set reasonable restrictions on exterior placement. Tenants must give their landlord and applicable housing association written notice, proof the device qualifies, and its proposed location at least 14 days before placement or use. Tenants are responsible for device-caused damage to their rented space. Landlords are protected from claims about unsafe living conditions or missing essential services caused solely by the device. Housing providers may require residents to cover injury or property-damage claims caused by careless installation, maintenance, or use by residents or their contractors or agents. These housing protections and responsibilities start March 1, 2027.

Towns cannot ban covered solar devices on residential property or require permits, fees, or other approvals for device placement or use. The protection against local bans covers residential property. The approval exemption covers devices that meet the law's definition. Building changes, electrical work, and other alterations still must follow applicable safety codes and local permit or inspection requirements. These limits on towns start March 1, 2027.