Big Solar Project in New Jersey

A big solar project in New Jersey is planned.  In February this year, Public Service Electricity and Gas announced that it would install solar panels on 200,000 utility poles.  In addition, schools, municipal buildings, and low-income housing would be fitted with solar panels.

In all, 120 MW of clean, renewable electricity would be generated, which would represent 7% of New Jersey’s goal of generating 22.5% of its power through renewable sources by 2020.

As is normally the case, the panels on utility poles would generally power items like traffic lights and signals.  However, the solar panels would also be connected to the electrical grid, allowing the utility to sell the power on the wholesale market.  As a result, costs of the installation could be quickly offset.  The utility will be able to earn income from selling the renewable energy credits that will accrue during production of solar energy.

As stated in the New York Times:

“[S]olar power is the most prominent renewable energy source in New Jersey, which ranks second behind California in producing solar energy. As a result, the number of companies that install solar energy equipment has blossomed. By starting such a” large-scale project, the utility is providing much-needed stimulus to the state’s economy.

While the big solar project in New Jersey sounds great, its not without some hurdles.  For example, the panels on utility poles would be rigid – unable to rotate to follow the sun.  This will limit their productivity.  Also, not all of the poles can be used for panel installation, if they sunlight is blocked by shade from buildings or trees.

Fortunately, the utility can start looking to recoup its investment right away.  Even more noteworthy is the important precedent the project will set.  Other states and municipalities can follow the lead of New Jersey, in considering ways to reduce use of fossil fuels and save rate-payers and taxpayers money along the way.

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