Study finds New Jersey community solar pilot program could bring huge economic benefit

Today, a new report was released by solar advocates that analyzes the potential economic impact New Jersey could expect from the recently passed community solar pilot program. The report analyzed the impact of a 450-MW community solar pilot program implemented over a three-year period and found that New Jersey can expect the following economic benefits: 1,778 sustained full-time jobs during construction and an additional 41 sustained full-time jobs associated with operations and maintenance. $414.7 million in earnings for those employed. $797.9 million in local economic benefits for the state, excepting local tax revenues. $3.3 million from property tax revenues in the first year alone. Governor Murphy and the New Jersey legislature recently passed community solar enabling legislation that requires the implementation of a three-year pilot program and the establishment of a permanent program after 36 months.