This bill establishes the State Smart Solar Permitting Platform, which will be managed by the Commissioner of Community Affairs in New Jersey. The platform aims to streamline the approval process for residential solar energy systems by automating plan reviews, instantly releasing permits, and ensuring compliance with the State Uniform Construction Code. It is expected to process at least 75% of applications, thereby reducing bureaucratic delays that can lead to increased costs and project cancellations. Local enforcing agencies are required to use this platform or implement an equivalent automated system, with compliance reports submitted to the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

To enforce compliance, the bill includes penalties for local agencies that do not permit applications through the designated platform, with fines directed to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The DCA is also authorized to condition or deny funding to non-compliant local units. Additionally, the DCA will provide training for local agency employees on the platform's use and may implement solar permit surcharge fees to help cover the platform's development and administration costs. Overall, the legislation aims to promote solar energy adoption in New Jersey while alleviating financial burdens on residents.