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Bill > S4786
NJ S4786
NJ S4786Requires Commissioner of Community Affairs to amend or supplement State Uniform Construction Code concerning use of balcony solar panel systems.
summary
Introduced
10/27/2025
10/27/2025
In Committee
10/27/2025
10/27/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill would require the Commissioner of Community Affairs to provide guidance concerning wiring or modification of homes to accommodate the use of commercially available balcony solar panel systems, as defined in the bill, through either: (1) adopting a balcony solar panel system addendum; or (2) proposing amendments to revise the electrical subcode or other model code adopted pursuant to the State Uniform Construction Code Act. Balcony solar panel systems, also referred to as "plug-in solar panels," are small, commercially available solar panel systems which can be plugged into a wall electrical socket. However, due to international variation in electrical socket voltage, certain balcony solar panel systems designed for use in countries other than the United States may not be safe for use in New Jersey without modification or adaptation to the home.
AI Summary
This bill requires the Commissioner of Community Affairs to develop guidance for the safe installation and use of balcony solar panel systems (also known as "plug-in solar panels") in New Jersey. The bill first defines a balcony solar panel system as a solar device with specific characteristics: it must consist of solar panels, an inverter, and associated electrical components, prevent power from being fed back into the electrical grid, and not exceed 50 inches by 30 inches or 1,500 square inches in surface area. The Commissioner must either create a new addendum to the existing electrical subcode or propose amendments to the current construction code that provide standards for using these solar panel systems, with specific focus on ensuring the safe adaptation of home electrical systems for both U.S.-designed and internationally-designed solar panel systems. This guidance is necessary because electrical socket voltages can vary internationally, and some foreign-designed solar panel systems may require modification to be safely used in New Jersey. The bill aims to provide clear, comprehensive standards to help homeowners safely integrate these small, plug-in solar panel systems into their homes. The act will take effect immediately upon signing.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee (on 10/27/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4786 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S5000/4786_I1.HTM |
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