The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Positions the State as a National Leader in the Fight for Energy Affordability
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU), under the direction of Governor Sherrill, has approved major initiatives, positioning the state as a national leader in advancing energy affordability. Through decisive steps to expand solar and storage, the Board is advancing solutions that can help reduce energy costs, strengthen grid reliability, and ensure clean energy benefits reach households across the state.
The BPU has approved 355 MW of large-scale battery storage while promptly launching a second storage solicitation for 645 MW. Battery storage will provide flexible and affordable power while relieving pressure on the regional grid, which has contributed to rising energy bills for New Jersey residents. Additionally, the Board awarded just over 24 MW of utility-scale solar projects and a 3,000 MW expansion of the state’s community solar.
Vote Solar’s Mid-Atlantic Regulatory Director, Kartik Amarnath, issued the following statement:
“Community solar is one of the most powerful tools available to ensure the benefits of clean energy reach every resident in New Jersey, allowing everyone— renters, low-income families, and those without suitable rooftops— to save money on their energy bills. We applaud the Sherrill administration and the BPU for taking bold action to expand battery storage and community solar at a moment when New Jersey families are facing rising electricity costs. These decisions will help build a more flexible and affordable electricity system while delivering meaningful savings for households across the state. With 51% of each project serving low- and moderate-income (LMI) households, New Jersey’s community solar program will continue to stand out nationally by now also requiring at least a 25% utility bill discount for LMI subscribers. This historic 3,000 MW expansion will significantly broaden access to affordable clean energy and strengthen New Jersey’s leadership in the community solar landscape.
“There is still important work ahead, but these actions demonstrate the urgency New Jersey families deserve. We look forward to working with state leadership to ensure New Jersey residents receive sustainable solutions to this affordability crisis— a clean energy transition that makes the state’s electricity system affordable, resilient, and fair.”