Is solar worth it in New Jersey?
Yes, for long-term price certainty. New Jersey's average residential rate was 24.61 cents per kWh in August 2026, net metering is unchanged after the BPU's May 2026 review, and SREC-II payments fell from $85 to $77 from July 27, 2026, including for leased systems.
The facts
- Average residential rate: 24.61 cents per kWh in August 2026, flat year over year. Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Monthly Table 5.6.A
- Supply changes on June 1, 2026: PSE&G down 1.8%, JCP&L up 1.6%. Source: NJ Board of Public Utilities, Feb 12, 2026
- Governor Sherrill ordered bill credits and a rate-hike freeze, plus a solar and storage emergency order and a virtual power plant program within 180 days. Source: Office of the Governor, Jan 20, 2026
- Net metering is unchanged per the BPU's May 21, 2026 order; SREC-II fell from $85 to $77 from July 27, 2026, the same for leased systems. Source: NJ Board of Public Utilities order, May 21, 2026
- A home battery program has been proposed, not approved. Source: NJ Board of Public Utilities, Aug 19, 2026
Sources
Written by Energy Company team
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