This bill establishes a three-year pilot program known as the Roadside Right-of-Way Solar Energy Pilot Program, which is designed to allow the construction, installation, and operation of solar energy projects on roadside rights-of-way in New Jersey. The Board of Public Utilities (BPU), in consultation with the Commissioner of Transportation, is tasked with adopting rules and regulations for the program within 180 days of the bill's enactment. The program will have a capacity limit of 10 megawatts for individual projects and a total capacity limit of 200 megawatts across all projects. Additionally, the bill outlines specific criteria for project approval, including considerations for traffic safety, environmental impact, and compliance with existing laws.

The bill also provides for the possibility of extending the pilot program for up to two additional 12-month periods if deemed necessary for performance evaluation. After the pilot program's conclusion, the BPU is required to develop a permanent program based on the pilot's findings, which will include standards for project capacity, emissions management, and installation techniques. The legislation ensures that approved roadside solar projects will be permitted uses in all municipalities, streamlining the process for project owners who must apply for and obtain necessary approvals from the BPU and DOT.