Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy has announced the launch of a new website designed to assist municipalities and solar developers in planning, funding, and completing solar projects on capped landfills. Alongside this initiative, he signed legislation A4619/S3479 aimed at enhancing incentives for historic preservation and the redevelopment of brownfields into solar energy facilities across New Jersey.

Governor Murphy stated, "In New Jersey, we have set the ambitious goal of delivering a 100 percent green economy because we know how important it is to build a strong foundation for renewable energy, combating the imminent threat of climate change and propelling our state forward."

The newly launched Landfill to Solar website will consolidate resources from various state departments to provide guidance for initiating solar projects. It features tools such as the DEP’s Solar Siting Analysis Mapping Tool which helps identify suitable landfill sites for development.

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities President Christine Guhl-Sadovy remarked on the state's thriving solar industry: “From our Competitive Solar Incentive program to our nation-leading Community Solar Energy Program, New Jersey’s thriving solar industry continues to serve as a national model.”

Tim Sullivan, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, highlighted the economic impact: “Preserving historic sites and transforming dormant properties serves as a key component of Governor Murphy’s economic development strategy.”

The legislation also enhances incentives under EDA’s Brownfields Redevelopment Incentive Program Act by covering remediation activities required for landfill capping. Tax credits will be available up to $12 million depending on project location.

Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette emphasized information's role in transitioning to clean energy: “Information is critical to our ongoing transition to a clean-energy economy.”

Sponsors of bill A4619/S3479 include Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz who said, “Increasing tax incentives...will create jobs, stimulate local economies,” and Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin who noted that these provisions ensure more effective programs.

With an aim for 100 percent clean electricity by 2035 under Governor Murphy's leadership, these initiatives are expected to significantly contribute towards job creation in New Jersey's renewable energy sector.

Michael Egenton from the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce commended this move: “This legislation will also improve compliance and consistency with federal programs." Dan Kennedy from NAIOP-NJ added that improvements make existing programs more attractive for developers.

Eric Millard from CS Energy expressed gratitude towards Governor Murphy's efforts in investing in landfills and brownfields for clean energy development.