New Jersey Expands Solar, Storage Capacity With Signed Laws

Utah lawmakers are considering new regulations to limit state incentives for solar farms on productive farmland, aiming to protect prime cropland from being covered by solar panels. The proposed bill, which could be fast-tracked in 2026, reflects concerns from farmers and ranchers about preserving agricultural land. Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed multiple bills to expand community solar capacity by 3,000 megawatts and establish incentives for 1,000 megawatts of battery storage by 2030 to stabilize the electric grid and lower energy costs. These measures are designed to increase solar access, particularly for low- to moderate-income households, and to boost renewable energy jobs while tackling rising electricity prices. New Jersey's community solar program already serves hundreds of thousands of homes, and the new laws aim to expand this access to one million homes by 2028. The state also positions itself as a leader in battery storage, which will enhance grid reliability and support the integration of renewable energy.