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Community Solar in New Jersey: Options Without Rooftop Panels

Learn how off-site solar subscriptions and bill-credit discounts work for renters and homes without a suitable roof.

Not every New Jersey resident owns a suitable roof. Community solar creates a route to solar bill credits through a shared off-site project instead of an installation on your property.

How the subscription works

A participating project assigns a portion of its output to an eligible utility customer. The utility applies a community-solar bill credit; the subscriber pays the project owner the agreed discounted amount. The project and subscription must be available in the relevant utility territory. Subscriber FAQ

Current discount floor

NJBPU’s March 2026 expansion order requires newly registered projects under that order to offer at least a 20% guaranteed discount on bill-credit value, and at least 25% for low- and moderate-income (LMI) subscribers. At least 51% of project capacity remains reserved for LMI subscribers. The discount applies to the credited solar portion, not automatically to the entire utility bill. NJBPU March 2026 order

Who may be a good fit?

Renters, condominium residents, shaded-roof homeowners and households that cannot install rooftop panels may explore community solar. Availability, account eligibility and LMI qualification depend on the project and program rules.

Questions to ask before enrolling

  • What utility account and project territory are required?
  • What percentage discount is guaranteed, and to which bill-credit value?
  • Are there enrollment, exit, transfer or late-payment fees?
  • What happens if you move or your electric use changes?
  • How and when will utility credits and project invoices appear?

Read the exact subscription agreement before enrolling. Official subscriber guidance

Frequently asked questions

Do I need panels on my roof?

No. Community solar is an off-site subscription model for eligible customers in a participating utility territory.

Is the discount applied to my whole bill?

The guaranteed percentage applies to the eligible community-solar bill-credit value, not necessarily every line of the utility bill.

Can renters subscribe?

The program is intended to expand access to residents who cannot use rooftop solar, including renters, subject to project availability and agreement terms.

Educational content only.

Eligibility, rates, utility practices and contract terms can change. Review current official material and obtain qualified legal, tax or financial advice where relevant.

Explore the complete New Jersey solar guide

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