Solar energy projects considered essential during state of emergency in New Jersey
The State of New Jersey considers solar projects “essential construction projects” during the COVID-19 pandemic state of emergency.
Under Gov. Phil Murphy’s recent executive order, “utility projects, including those necessary for energy and electricity production and transmission and any decommissioning of facilities used for electricity generation,” may continue during the Public Health Emergency and State of Emergency declared by Murphy.
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) clarified that solar projects fall within these parameters and are necessary for energy and electricity production. What it means is all new and ongoing solar construction, including both commercial and residential projects, can move forward.
“Solar is a critical and growing contributor to energy, notably clean energy, in the state, and energy provision is an essential service,” NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso said. “To eliminate any confusion, as some projects were continuing during this period and some were not, NJBPU is clarifying that all solar projects can move forward during this time.”
The NJBPU is a state agency and regulatory authority mandated to ensure safe, adequate, and proper utility services at reasonable rates for residents of the state. Critical services regulated by NJBPU include natural gas, electricity, water, wastewater, telecommunications, and cable television. The board has oversight and responsibility for monitoring utility service, responding to consumer complaints, and investigating utility accidents.
