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Bill > S688
NJ S688
NJ S688Requires Commissioner of Community Affairs to amend or supplement State Uniform Construction Code concerning use of balcony solar panel systems.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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 update the State Uniform Construction Code, which sets building standards, to address the safe installation and use of balcony solar panel systems. These systems, also known as "plug-in solar panels," are small, commercially available solar units that can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet and are designed to generate power for immediate use within a home without sending excess electricity back to the power grid. The bill mandates that the Commissioner either create a specific addendum for these systems or propose changes to the existing electrical code to provide clear guidelines for wiring and home modifications needed to accommodate them, ensuring that systems designed for use in other countries are properly adapted for safety in New Jersey.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/S688 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S1000/688_I1.HTM |
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