The bill amends Section 5 of P.L.2018, c.17 (C.48:3-87.11) to enhance the Community Solar Energy Pilot Program in New Jersey. It mandates the Board of Public Utilities to adopt rules and regulations that allow customers of electric public utilities to participate in solar energy projects located remotely from their properties, while ensuring they receive credits on their utility bills for the electricity generated. The bill outlines specific requirements for the pilot program, including capacity limits for individual projects, geographic limitations, and provisions to ensure access for low and moderate-income customers. Additionally, it establishes standards for project verification, consumer protection, and the connection of solar projects to the distribution system.

Furthermore, the bill sets a timeline for transitioning the pilot program into a permanent program within 36 months of the adoption of the initial rules. It includes goals for the conditional registration of solar energy projects, with specific megawatt targets to be achieved by 2024 and 2025. The permanent program will also require monthly reporting from project operators and the electric public utility, as well as provisions for customer participation, including self-attestation for income verification for low- and moderate-income customers. The act is set to take effect immediately upon approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48:3-87.11
Advance Law: 48:3-87.11
Pamphlet Law: 48:3-87.11