New JerseyNew Jersey would add roadside solar targets to incentive program
The state utility board would set roadside solar targets for paid energy credits and bidding contracts, though their five-year periods point back to the 2021 program.
What it does
The board would aim to give qualifying roadside projects credits for 50 megawatts of solar power yearly. That five-year target follows the existing program’s start, with no new start date.
The board would add a bidding target of contracts for at least 50 megawatts of roadside solar yearly. Its five-year period points back to the 2021 program law; no new start date is set.
Argument forIf awards remain available, roadside projects could earn solar incentives while drivers continue using the roads beside them.
Argument againstTying the roadside targets to the existing five-year periods could leave project owners unsure whether future credits and contracts will be available.
More detail
The state utility board would aim to provide incentive credits for 50 megawatts of roadside solar each year. Projects must use state-controlled land beside roads without blocking road use, safety, maintenance, or future expansion. Owners may apply under rules set by the board. Projects must connect to a New Jersey utility or local government grid. Projects generally must get permission to operate after the 2021 program law took effect, unless the board allows otherwise. The target applies to each of the five years after the existing incentive program was established; the bill gives roadside projects no new start date.
The state utility board would add a yearly target for roadside solar contracts awarded through competitive bidding. Roadside projects can bid if built after the 2021 program law took effect and connected to a New Jersey utility or local government grid. Projects must meet the board’s site rules. The board ranks bids by price and selects projects within its budget. The five-year award period and first-award deadline are tied to the 2021 program law; the bill sets no new start date for roadside awards.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Sep 28Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy CommitteeIntroduced
Environment & EnergyTransportation