New Jersey launches brownfield solar project at Delanco Landfill

New Jersey has launched its first community brownfield solar project, which will be constructed on the closed Delanco Landfill as part of the state’s Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) Community Solar Energy Pilot Program.

The 3.1-megawatt (MW) solar installation, constructed by New Jersey developer Soltage in Delanco Township, will power up to 700 households with clean energy and dedicate 55 percent of its output to low- and moderate-income (LMI) subscribers.

“We are very proud to see successful community solar development, especially projects sited on former landfills,” said NJBPU President Joseph L. Fiordaliso in a press release. “Since these contaminated sites are often not suitable for other types of redevelopment, community solar is one of the best ways to utilize them in a way that promotes equity by making the benefits of clean energy more accessible to New Jersey residents.”

The Community Solar Energy Pilot Program is administered by New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program and provides access to solar energy by virtually connecting customers to a solar installation within their electric utility company’s service territory.

According to the program, this allows residential and commercial customers—who previously lacked access due to cost, shaded property or lack of roof control—to reap the benefits of a more equitable solar market without having to purchase, install or maintain solar panels.

NJBPU is in the process of reviewing 410 applications submitted for year two of the pilot program and expects to award capacity later this year.