Bill
Bill > A2403
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 requires the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to adopt certain rules and regulations to establish a three-year pilot program, to be known as the "Roadside Right-of-Way Solar Energy Pilot Program" (pilot program), to permit the construction, installation, and operation of roadside right-of-way solar energy projects (projects). Under the bill, BPU is permitted to extend the pilot program for up to an additional two 12-month periods if BPU, in consultation with the Department of Transportation (DOT), determines that an extension is necessary to adequately evaluate the pilot program's performance. The bill also outlines a procedure for the expansion of the pilot program into a permanent program and authorizes BPU to adopt certain rules and regulations to facilitate the expansion. To participate in the pilot program, the owner of a project is required to apply to BPU and DOT and, once approved, obtain any other necessary approvals that may be required under federal, State, or local law for the construction of the project. BPU, in consultation with DOT, is required to review and, within 180 days after receipt, approve, disapprove, or approve with conditions an owner's application under the pilot program. BPU and DOT are to review applications based on certain criteria outlined in the bill.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a three-year pilot program, overseen by the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) in consultation with the Department of Transportation (DOT), to allow for the construction and operation of solar energy projects on roadside rights-of-way, which are defined as land adjacent to roadways reserved for road maintenance, expansion, drainage, and safety, generally between 30 and 100 feet from the road's centerline. The pilot program, known as the "Roadside Right-of-Way Solar Energy Pilot Program," will permit projects up to 10 megawatts (MW) each, with a total program capacity limit of 200 MW, and can be extended for up to two additional years if needed for evaluation, with potential for increased total capacity. Project owners must apply to both the BPU and DOT, and their applications will be reviewed within 180 days based on criteria such as traffic safety, environmental impact, and technical feasibility, with approved projects needing to secure all other necessary federal, state, or local permits. The BPU is also tasked with developing rules to transition this pilot program into a permanent one, incorporating lessons learned from the pilot phase and research on the effectiveness of roadside solar energy.
Committee Categories
Transportation and Infrastructure
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities 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/A2403 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A2500/2403_I1.HTM |
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