The bill establishes new targets for roadside solar projects as part of New Jersey's solar energy incentive program, specifically amending Section 3 of P.L.1999, c.23 (C.48:3-51) to include definitions and provisions that promote solar energy facilities along roadways. It introduces the term "Commissioner," referring to the Commissioner of Transportation, highlighting a collaborative effort between the Department of Transportation and energy initiatives. The bill aims to utilize underutilized land along highways for solar energy generation, setting a target of 50 megawatts annually from roadside right-of-way solar energy facilities over five years, and includes these facilities in the Small Solar Facilities Incentive Program, which awards Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC-IIs).

Additionally, the bill enhances the competitive solicitation process for awarding SREC-IIs, ensuring that projects are evaluated based on environmental and public health benefits, while establishing distinct bidding categories that consider traffic patterns and emissions. It mandates the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to set criteria for these roadside solar developments, ensuring they meet the same qualification standards as other solar facilities. The bill also emphasizes minimizing environmental impacts and requires the BPU to track the use of prime agricultural soils for solar energy production, aligning with New Jersey's clean energy goals and greenhouse gas reduction targets as outlined in the 2019 Energy Master Plan.

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