NJ S1815

Appropriates $15 million from the General Fund to establish a solar energy grant program within the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) for public schools in New Jersey.

Eligible entities include school districts, educational services commissions, jointure commissions, career/technical schools, and community colleges, with grants covering up to 50% of eligible project costs including equipment, installation, permits, and energy storage.

BPU must establish program guidelines within 180 days and publish them on its website within 90 days, with no matching funds required from applicants.

If a school facility receiving a grant is sold within 20 years, the new owner must reimburse the BPU on a sliding scale: 80% if sold within 5 years, 60% for 5-10 years, 40% for 10-15 years, and 20% for 15-20 years.

BPU is required to provide technical assistance on federal Inflation Reduction Act funding opportunities and submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature on program effectiveness.