New Jersey Solar Project Will Cut Power Bills for 600 Families, Saving $20 Million

Starting next month, a Union Township solar project will slash utility costs for hundreds of New Jersey households. Each family could pocket up to $900 in savings. The initiative promises…

POMONA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 19: GRID Alternatives employees Sal Miranda (R) and Tony Chang install no-cost solar panels on the rooftop of a low-income household on October 19, 2023 in Pomona, California. GRID Alternatives has installed no-cost solar for over 29,000 low-income households located in underserved communities which are most impacted by pollution, underemployment and climate change. They are the country’s biggest nonprofit clean energy technologies installer and operate in California, mid-Atlantic states and Colorado. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
(Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Starting next month, a Union Township solar project will slash utility costs for hundreds of New Jersey households. Each family could pocket up to $900 in savings. The initiative promises $20 million in total benefits.

"It is programs like this that help local residents, especially low- to moderate-income families, save some ... much-needed dollars," said Petra Gaskins, chief of staff to state Sen. Joseph Cryan, per News 12 New Jersey.

As bills keep climbing, this Union County effort tackles the problem head-on. Clean power from the sun will soon offset the sting of monthly utility charges that strain local budgets.

Unlike past solar efforts that skipped past poorer areas, this plan opens doors for everyone. Families at all income levels can now tap into clean power savings: a first for the area.

After careful study, planners picked this spot for its bright prospects. The site is appropriate for both sun exposure and power system connections.

This fits in with New Jersey's push toward clean power. Past projects show homes cutting their power costs by a third to half when they sign up.

Construction kicks off as winter ends. By the time 2026 rolls around, these panels will pump out power, putting cash back in local wallets.

Want in? The local utilities office has the forms. You'll need proof you live in Union Township, and your income must fit the rules to join.