New Jersey Assembly Bill A5742

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/12/25
• Refer: 6/12/25

Caption

Establishes pilot program for solar energy generation on roadside right-of-way areas.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would significantly impact state laws concerning land use and energy generation. It permits projects that renewable energy developers would not have previously considered due to zoning restrictions. The Board of Public Utilities (BPU) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) will jointly oversee the program's implementation, establishing guidelines and criteria for project approval. This collaboration aims to ensure that new developments are safe for public use and will not interfere with traffic flow or roadway maintenance. Financial incentives are also proposed to encourage project participation.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5742 proposes the establishment of a pilot program for the generation of solar energy on roadside right-of-way areas within New Jersey. This program aims to facilitate the construction and operation of solar energy facilities on designated public roadways, utilizing space that is typically reserved for road maintenance, expansion, and safety. The bill specifies a capacity limit of 10 megawatts for individual projects while capping the total capacity across all projects under the pilot program to 200 megawatts. By utilizing these areas, the legislation seeks to optimize the existing infrastructure while promoting renewable energy production.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face contention regarding the use of roadside spaces for solar projects. Concerns could arise about potential safety issues, including the impact on traffic patterns and the risk of accidents if solar installations obstruct visibility on highways or interfere with ongoing maintenance operations. Additionally, discussions may involve the environmental impacts of construction activities and the necessity to protect stormwater drainage and roadway integrity. Proposals for addressing these issues will be critically examined during the review process by the BPU and DOT.