This bill mandates that developers of certain affordable housing projects, defined as either newly constructed inclusionary developments or existing affordable units undergoing substantial renovations, adhere to specific green building standards. These standards require compliance with the current version of the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star Residential New Construction Program and include provisions for the installation of behind-the-meter solar facilities. If solar installation is not feasible, developers can apply for an exemption from the Board of Public Utilities, which must respond within 45 days. The bill outlines various green design standards related to lighting, energy efficiency, air quality, and transportation, among others, that must be incorporated into project plans.
Additionally, the bill requires soil testing for contamination on land designated for new inclusionary developments, prohibiting construction on contaminated sites unless remediation occurs. Developers must provide soil test results to the relevant municipality. The Board of Public Utilities, in collaboration with the Department of Community Affairs and the Department of Environmental Protection, is tasked with creating rules and regulations to implement these provisions. The bill is set to take effect 13 months after enactment, with preparatory actions allowed beforehand.