NJ A2556

New Jersey affordable housing developments (new inclusionary developments and substantial renovations) must meet EPA Energy Star Residential New Construction Program standards, achieving 10-15% greater energy efficiency than building code requirements.

Developers must make good faith efforts to install behind-the-meter solar facilities, with exemptions available through the Board of Public Utilities within 45 days of application.

Mandatory green building standards include LED lighting with occupancy sensors, Energy Star-rated electric appliances, heat pump systems, low-VOC materials, native plant landscaping, and permeable paving where feasible.

At least 15% of parking spaces must have Level 2 EV charging stations, with an additional 15% wired as "Make-Ready" for future EV charging, plus one covered, secured bicycle storage space per unit.

Developers must test soil for contamination before construction and remediate any contaminated land; non-compliant units cannot count toward a municipality's fair share affordable housing obligation.