New Jersey has reached a milestone of 5GW of installed solar capacity, more than double the state’s solar energy output since 2017.
Governor Phil Murphy (pictured) said: “With this milestone achievement in solar energy, we are building a strong foundation for renewable energy while combating the imminent threat of climate change and propelling our state forward on 100% clean electricity.
“By expanding solar programs and resources for homes and businesses, we are taking a whole-of-government approach to making solar energy more affordable and accessible than ever before.”
Murphy announced $156m from the US Environmental Protection Agency last year to deliver 175MW of solar energy for low-income households.
The state also published a “Landfill to Solar” resource page for local governments and solar developers.
Eric Miller, Executive Director of the New Jersey’s Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy said: “New Jersey is leading the way on solar, meeting our clean energy and climate commitments while creating a thriving in-state clean energy economy.”
The milestone means that in-state solar power produces over 8% of the state’s power, according to President of Mid-Atlantic Solar and Storage Industries Association Lyle Rawlings.
He added that if New Jersey continues solar programs at the current rate “solar energy will play a key role in achieving Governor Murphy’s goal of 100% clean energy by 2035”, all while creating jobs in the region and bringing down consumer energy costs.