New Jersey landlords and homeowner associations will have to allow their residents to put up "balcony solar panels" under a new state law.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed the Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S2368/A4836) on Tuesday, getting a cheer from several environmental advocacy groups.
Balcony solar devices plug into a standard 120-volt outlet: most units come with a microinverter and adapter. The devices provide electricity directly to a home's existing electrical system, and are available for purchase online and at local home improvement stores.
The new law exempts qualifying plug-in solar devices of up to 1,200 watts – roughly equivalent to the power used by a microwave oven – from utility interconnection and metering requirements, including certain fees, approvals and equipment mandates.
The law prevents landlords, homeowner associations and similar entities from broadly prohibiting the use of these devices. It also bars municipalities from prohibiting them or requiring permits for their use.
"Balcony solar is a practical, easy-to-use tool that can help families save money while allowing more people to participate in our clean energy future," Sherrill said.
"This bill cuts unnecessary red tape, expands access to affordable solar power, and proves that affordability and sustainability can go hand in hand," she added.
Several environmental advocacy groups applauded the move, including the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters, Environment New Jersey, the Vote Solar Action Fund (Mid-Atlantic), and Permit Power.
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