This bill amends the definition of "inherently beneficial use" within the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL) to explicitly include energy storage projects that are either under or eligible for incentive awards from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) as part of an energy storage program. The bill defines "energy storage program" to encompass various initiatives, including the BPU's Successor Solar Incentive Program, the Competitive Solar Incentive Program, and the Garden State Energy Storage Program, among others.

Additionally, the bill makes several technical amendments to existing definitions within the MLUL. Notably, it clarifies the term "inherently beneficial use" to include not only traditional uses such as hospitals and schools but also renewable energy facilities like solar and photovoltaic energy structures. These changes aim to promote the development of energy storage projects, recognizing their value in serving the public good and enhancing community welfare. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.