New Jersey is committed to sustainable energy, marking a significant stride forward as Governor Phil Murphy recently signed a groundbreaking bill that further strengthens the state’s community solar program. This legislative development not only amplifies the overall scale of the initiative but also focuses on broadening access, particularly for individuals with low- and moderate-income (LMI).

The newly enacted legislation, officially known as A4782/S3123, addresses critical aspects of the community solar program, aiming to foster inclusivity and ensure that the benefits of solar energy reach every corner of the state. Community solar stands as a formidable tool in breaking down barriers associated with income levels or housing types, offering each New Jerseyan the opportunity to embrace local, reliable, and affordable clean energy solutions.

Within the framework of the permanent Community Solar Energy Program (CSEP), the legislation designates a substantial 51% of the program’s capacity to serve LMI subscribers. The deliberate allocation is intended to ensure equitable access to the advantages of clean energy, with subscribers receiving a guaranteed minimum bill credit of 15%. These measures are set to translate into tangible and meaningful savings for communities across the state, especially those that stand to gain the most.

One of the key provisions of the legislation is the streamlining of eligibility verification. By institutionalizing self-attestation, the bill transforms a crucial equity provision within the CSEP into law. This move addresses the previous requirement of extensive income documentation for LMI community solar eligibility, a process that could be cumbersome, frustrating, and potentially hindering overall adoption.

Furthermore, the legislation empowers municipalities to play a pivotal role in facilitating access to low-income subscribers. It allows for the sharing of necessary information, enabling municipalities to identify and subscribe eligible community members automatically, ensuring that energy bill savings are directed towards those who need them the most. This provision stipulates that at least 80% of municipally aggregated subscribers will fall under the low and moderate-income category.

Acknowledging the surging interest in community solar, the legislation proactively tackles the imperative of scaling up the program. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) witnessed an inundation of applications, totaling over 300 MW of new solar capacity. In response to this overwhelming demand and the palpable enthusiasm for clean energy, the bill strategically boosts the program’s capacity, propelling the state’s swift transition towards clean energy and ensuring expanded access for residents, irrespective of their income or housing circumstances.

This legislative initiative holds particular significance in expanding equitable access to clean energy and addressing the challenges faced by overburdened communities, especially those of color. These communities often grapple with disproportionately high utility bills and heightened exposure to air pollution from fossil fuels, contributing to adverse health impacts. The bill’s prime sponsors, Senators Bob Smith and Linda Greenstein in the Senate, along with Representatives John McKeon, Daniel Benson, and Representative Raj Mukherji in the Assembly, emphasize New Jersey’s commitment to leading the charge for an equitable clean energy future.

Reflecting on these developments, Elowyn Corby, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director for the national non-profit Vote Solar, commended New Jersey’s community solar program for rapidly emerging as a national leader in the pursuit of an equitable clean energy future. Corby expressed gratitude to state leaders and communities across the state for their dedicated efforts, highlighting that a clean energy transition centered around people’s interests, health, and well-being holds limitless possibilities. As New Jersey continues to set the standard, it reinforces the notion that prioritizing both speed and equity in the clean energy transition is not only achievable but imperative for a sustainable future.

Source: Solar Power World