This bill establishes a pilot program for solar energy generation on roadside right-of-way areas in New Jersey, allowing owners to construct, install, and operate solar energy projects that produce electric power from solar photovoltaic panels. The program is designed to ensure that these projects do not impair traffic patterns or road safety while allowing for the continued use of the roads below. The Board of Public Utilities (BPU), in consultation with the Commissioner of Transportation, is tasked with adopting rules and regulations for the program, which will include a capacity limit of 10 megawatts for individual projects and a total capacity limit of 200 megawatts for all projects combined. The bill also outlines various criteria for project approval, including environmental considerations and safety measures.

To participate in the pilot program, project owners must submit an application to the BPU, which will review and approve applications within 180 days. The bill mandates that the BPU and the Commissioner consider factors such as traffic monitoring, project size, geographic location, and environmental impacts during the review process. Additionally, the program is set to last for 36 months, with the possibility of extending it for up to two additional years if necessary. After the pilot program, the BPU is required to develop a permanent program based on the pilot's results, which will include standards for future roadside right-of-way solar energy projects.