NJR Clean Energy Ventures (NJRCEV) has completed new 1.5 megawatt (MW) ground-mounted solar project at the former municipal landfill.
Consisting of nearly 4,000 solar panels, the fixed-tilt array is expected to provide enough clean energy to power 230 homes annually and reduce emissions by 1,435 tons, equal to removing 290 cars from the road each year.
The capped landfill has been closed for more than 30 years. 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. 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.”
Steve Westhoven, president and CEO of New Jersey Resources.
“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.”
Hopatcong Mayor Michael Francis.
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.
