Bill > A5768

This bill requires the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to revise the Community Solar Energy Pilot Program by establishing new solar energy project registration and capacity targets. Specifically, the bill mandates a goal of conditionally registering 225 megawatts of solar energy projects by June 1, 2024, with potential additional registrations of 275 megawatts if qualified applications exceed 225 megawatts, and another 250 megawatts by June 1, 2025. The bill also introduces a new registration phase requiring the BPU to open registration by October 1, 2025, for an additional 3,000 megawatts of solar energy projects, which will be accepted and approved until December 31, 2029, or until the full 3,000 megawatts are registered. The legislation aims to expand community solar opportunities, ensuring access for low and moderate-income customers, and includes provisions for project standards, geographic limitations, bill crediting, and distribution system impact minimization. The bill builds upon the existing Community Solar Energy Pilot Program established in 2018, with the goal of transitioning from a pilot program to a permanent, more expansive solar energy initiative that supports broader renewable energy participation across New Jersey.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5768