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, and it sets a capacity limit of 10 megawatts for individual projects, with a total capacity cap of 200 megawatts for all projects under the pilot program. The Board of Public Utilities (BPU), in consultation with the Commissioner of Transportation, is tasked with adopting rules and regulations for the program, including application processes, financial incentives, and criteria for evaluating project proposals.

To participate in the pilot program, project owners must obtain approval from the BPU and the Department of Transportation, as well as any necessary federal, state, or local permits. The bill outlines specific criteria for project evaluation, such as monitoring traffic volume and safety, geographic location, and environmental considerations. The pilot program will last for 36 months, with the possibility of two 12-month extensions, and aims to transition into a permanent program based on the pilot's outcomes. The legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining public safety and road functionality while promoting renewable energy development in New Jersey.