NJR Clean Energy Ventures completes 1.5-MW solar project on New Jersey landfill

NJR Clean Energy Ventures (NJRCEV), the clean energy subsidiary of New Jersey Resources, completed a 1.5-MW ground-mounted solar project at the former municipal landfill in Hopatcong, New Jersey. Consisting of nearly 4,000 solar panels, the fixed-tilt array is expected to provide enough clean energy to power 230 homes annually.

The capped landfill has been closed for more than 30 years, and NJRCEV will lease 23 acres of this underutilized space from the borough for a term of 25 years with the opportunity to extend the agreement for up to an additional 10 years. The clean power produced will be sold to PJM and further the state’s clean energy goals.

“As one of the earliest investors in New Jersey’s solar marketplace, NJR Clean Energy Ventures has a long track record of innovation and sustainability, and our Hopatcong solar project reflects that commitment,” said Steve Westhoven, president and CEO of New Jersey Resources. “By turning this brownfield into renewable, green energy, we are helping to support the state’s emission reduction goals, grow our business and lead the way to a clean energy future for New Jersey.”

Hopatcong Mayor Michael Francis said: “This is a win-win for everybody. Each year, the landfill costs the borough money in water testing and fees. We look forward to offsetting these costs and saving taxpayers money while generating clean energy for the state.”

The Hopatcong solar project was jointly developed and permitted by AC Power and Citrine Power after the developers signed a lease with the borough in 2018. NJRCEV acquired the project in 2019 and completed construction in September 2020.

The Hopatcong solar project was approved for Transition Renewable Energy Credits (TRECs) under the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities’ T grid-connected project application process. TRECs are the credits generated by solar systems that can be sold to meet utility providers’ renewable energy requirements.

NJRCEV now maintains more than 350 MW of installed solar capacity.

News item from NJR Clean Energy Ventures

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Original Source: https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2020/10/njr-clean-energy-ventures-completes-solar-project-on-new-jersey-landfill/