New Jersey’s community solar program is set to expand following the signing of a new law by Governor Phil Murphy. Governor Murphy signed a bill in January 2024 to bolster New Jersey’s community solar program, with the aim of expanding its overall size and ensuring greater access for low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents. The legislation, A4782/S3123, represents a significant stride towards equitable access to clean energy, eliminating barriers for those often left out of the clean energy transition. This is a major win for providing cleaner energy options to diverse communities across New Jersey.
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Community Solar serves as a crucial tool in creating greater access to solar benefits, irrespective of income levels or housing types. The Community Solar Energy Program (CSEP) has been made permanent, with 51% of its capacity now dedicated to serving LMI subscribers. Subscribers will benefit from a minimum bill credit of 15%, ensuring meaningful savings for communities across the state.
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This Legislation Achieves Three Key Objectives:
- Streamlining Eligibility Verification: The bill encompasses self-attestation, an essential equity provision, into law. This simplifies the process for LMI individuals, eliminating the need for extensive income documentation, thus promoting increased adoption.
- Municipal Facilitation for Low-Income Subscribers: The legislation allows municipalities to share necessary information to identify and subscribe eligible community members automatically. This ensures that the advantages of clean energy reach those who need it most.
- Expanding the Program’s Size: Acknowledging the overwhelming demand for community solar, the legislation increases the program’s capacity to meet the needs of residents. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities had received applications exceeding 300 megawatts in December, indicating the program’s popularity.
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This initiative is seen as particularly crucial for overburdened communities, especially those of color, facing high utility bills and increased exposure to fossil fuel-related air pollution. The legislation has garnered support from various quarters, including environmental organizations, healthcare professionals, and community advocates, who see it as a historic step toward clean energy justice and health improvements.
As New Jersey advances towards its 100% clean energy goal by 2035, the legislation emphasizes the importance of ensuring the transition is inclusive, benefitting the most vulnerable communities.
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