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New Jersey Reaches 5GW Solar Milestone: A Step Toward 100% Clean Energy by 2035

Jan 27

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New Jersey Reaches 5GW Solar Milestone
Governor Phil Murphy (Image Credit: Mercer Times)

New Jersey has achieved a significant renewable energy milestone with 5GW of installed solar capacity, more than doubling its solar output since 2017. This achievement underscores the state’s commitment to combating climate change and advancing towards Governor Phil Murphy’s ambitious goal of 100% clean energy by 2035.


Expanding Solar Access and Affordability

Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, “With this milestone achievement in solar energy, we are building a strong foundation for renewable energy while combating the imminent threat of climate change and propelling our state forward on 100% clean electricity. By expanding solar programs and resources for homes and businesses, we are making solar energy more affordable and accessible than ever before.”


Last year, the state received $156 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to support 175MW of solar energy for low-income households. Additionally, New Jersey introduced a "Landfill to Solar" resource page aimed at guiding local governments and developers in repurposing landfills for solar installations.


Solar's Impact on Clean Energy Goals and Economy

Eric Miller, Executive Director of New Jersey's Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy, highlighted the state’s leadership in solar energy. He stated, “New Jersey is leading the way on solar, meeting our clean energy and climate commitments while creating a thriving in-state clean energy economy.”


The milestone means that solar power now contributes over 8% of the state’s energy. Lyle Rawlings, President of the Mid-Atlantic Solar and Storage Industries Association, emphasized that maintaining the current momentum in solar development will play a critical role in achieving New Jersey’s clean energy goals. He added that continued investment in solar energy will also create jobs and reduce energy costs for consumers.


A Vision for a Sustainable Future

New Jersey’s solar journey is setting a precedent for other states, proving that renewable energy can drive economic growth, create jobs, and address environmental challenges. As solar capacity grows, the state moves closer to its vision of a cleaner, greener future.

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