The bill establishes the Office of Clean Energy Equity within the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to ensure equitable access to clean energy resources for overburdened communities. This office will oversee the deployment of clean energy, energy efficiency, and energy storage programs, with a goal of benefiting at least 250,000 low-income households through onsite or community solar initiatives by 2030. The BPU is required to allocate a minimum of 10% of its annual clean energy budget, or at least $50 million, to support the office's initiatives. Additionally, the bill mandates the integration of workforce development training into clean energy programs and collaboration with various state departments to enhance job training and entrepreneurial support for residents in these communities.

The legislation also amends the existing Community Solar Energy Pilot Program to improve access for low and moderate-income customers and requires that all new construction in overburdened communities be "solar ready." It emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the planning and implementation of clean energy initiatives and gives preference to projects involving minority or women-owned businesses. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for a study on utility rate schedules for multi-family housing and the financial benefits of community solar for these residents, ensuring that the needs of overburdened communities are prioritized and effectively addressed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48:3-87.11