The bill aims to enhance New Jersey's solar energy initiatives by establishing specific targets for roadside solar projects within the state's solar energy incentive program. It amends Section 3 of P.L.1999, c.23 (C.48:3-51) to introduce new definitions, including "Commissioner" to refer to the Commissioner of Transportation, and to define "roadside right-of-way solar energy facilities" as solar installations located on land adjacent to roadways. The legislation sets a target of 50 megawatts of energy generation from these roadside facilities annually over five years and includes provisions for awarding Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC-IIs) to eligible projects.

Additionally, the bill enhances the competitive solicitation process for SREC-II contracts, establishing criteria for eligibility that require facilities to be interconnected to a New Jersey public utility's distribution or transmission system. It emphasizes the importance of financial viability and environmental benefits, particularly for projects on contaminated sites or landfills. The legislation aligns with the state's clean energy goals outlined in the 2019 Energy Master Plan, which aims for 100% clean energy and an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and mandates annual reporting on the SREC-II program's progress to ensure transparency and effectiveness.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48:3-51, 48:3-116, 48:3-117, 48:3-119, 48:3-120