New Jersey Sides With Solar! More State Leadership Needed

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We’ve all seen the news of the disastrous SPEED Act and the Trump administration’s constant attacks on solar power. What’s the solution? Aside from tossing out the fossil-soaked politicians that run our country, we need state and local leadership. That’s our best hope for the next few years. The good news this week is that New Jersey is siding with solar.

“Today, the New Jersey Senate passed A-5264, a bill to streamline and modernize the process for permitting residential solar energy systems. The law takes effect immediately,” the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) wrote yesterday.

“This new law is a win-win across the board, for energy affordability, reliability, and local economies across New Jersey,” Leah Meredith, mid-Atlantic state affairs director for SEIA, added. “Smart solar permitting ensures that New Jersey residents can lower their electricity bills with rooftop solar without being bogged down by costly red tape that can add up to $7,000 to the cost of an average system. Importantly, the new process will ensure safety and reliability of these systems.”

Meredith also made some strong points on how this legislation came about, highlighting the critical role of the people, the voters. “This November, New Jersey voters sent a clear message to leaders across the state that energy affordability is a major concern, and that they see solar and storage as part of the solution. By making the process of going solar more efficient and affordable, New Jersey leaders are showing voters that their message was heard loud and clear.” That’s what we all need more of in our states.

This New Jersey win follows a big win for solar power and energy storage two months ago in Illinois. Which state is next to enjoy the solar party?

Note that New Jersey has been a leader in solar for many years. At times, it has truly led the US in residential solar policy. It’s not California, but it’s been a strong, consistent supporter of solar power. “According to SEIA’s and Wood Mackenzie’s Solar Market Insight Q4 2025 report, New Jersey has the 6th largest residential solar market in the country. Over 209,000 New Jersey homes have installed residential solar systems.”