Solar Industry Statement on New Jersey’s Passage of Smart Solar Permitting Bill to Lower Costs, Protect Consumers

TRENTON, NJ — Today, the New Jersey Senate passed A-5264, a bill to streamline and modernize the process for permitting residential solar energy systems. The law takes effect immediately.

Following is a statement from Leah Meredith, mid-Atlantic state affairs director for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), in response to today’s vote:

“This new law is a win-win across the board, for energy affordability, reliability, and local economies across New Jersey.

“Smart solar permitting ensures that New Jersey residents can lower their electricity bills with rooftop solar without being bogged down by costly red tape that can add up to $7,000 to the cost of an average system. Importantly, the new process will ensure safety and reliability of these systems.

“This November, New Jersey voters sent a clear message to leaders across the state that energy affordability is a major concern, and that they see solar and storage as part of the solution. By making the process of going solar more efficient and affordable, New Jersey leaders are showing voters that their message was heard loud and clear.

“The solar industry thanks Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, Senator John McKeon, Senator Linda Greenstein, and all of the state’s leaders in Trenton for their bold vision and partnership in getting this bill across the finish line.”

According to SEIA’s and Wood Mackenzie’s Solar Market Insight Q4 2025 report, New Jersey has the 6th largest residential solar market in the country. Over 209,000 New Jersey homes have installed residential solar systems.

###

Media Contact: 

Jacob Weinberg, SEIA’s Senior Communications Manager, [email protected] | 703-350-3774 

About SEIA®:

The Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA) is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy. SEIA works with its 1,200 member companies and other strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. Founded in 1974, SEIA is the national trade association for the solar and solar + storage industries, building a comprehensive vision for the Solar+ Decade through research, education and advocacy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org and follow @SEIA on Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.