Businesses in New Jersey are increasingly seeking ways to enhance their energy efficiency and sustainability while managing costs. Fortunately, the state offers a comprehensive array of financial incentives tailored to commercial enterprises. These incentives are integral to broader initiatives aimed at enhancing energy efficiency, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and encouraging the use of renewable energy technologies. In this blog, we will explore the various commercial rebates in New Jersey, with a focus on key programs for 2024 and how businesses can take advantage of these opportunities.

Understanding New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program (NJCEP)

New Jersey has long been at the forefront of environmental initiatives, and the New Jersey Clean Energy Program (NJCEP) is a testament to the state’s commitment to sustainability. The NJCEP is a wide-reaching initiative designed to promote energy efficiency and the adoption of renewable energy across the state. Within this program, there are several incentives specifically targeting commercial enterprises, particularly in the areas of new construction and substantial renovations.

New Construction Incentives

The New Construction Incentives under NJCEP are particularly significant for businesses undertaking new construction projects or substantial renovations. These incentives are designed to influence companies to adopt energy-efficient building practices that exceed the minimum efficiency standards mandated by building codes. By doing so, NJCEP aims to develop some of the most energy-efficient buildings in the nation.

Proposed New Construction Program (NCP)

The Proposed New Construction Program (NCP) is poised to be a game-changer for energy savings and emissions reduction in New Jersey. This program is designed to streamline processes and enhance equity, making it easier for businesses to incorporate energy efficiency into their construction projects. The NCP is expected to revolutionize the way energy-efficient buildings are designed and constructed in the state. Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed through the NJCEP Energy Efficiency Listserv and Newsletter to capitalize on these upcoming opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria for NJCEP Incentives

To qualify for the New Construction Incentives, projects must fall under the categories of new construction or substantial renovation and be located in buildings served by New Jersey Investor-Owned Utilities. Substantial renovations include scenarios such as changes of use, reconstruction of existing spaces, and revitalization of vacant structures. This wide eligibility scope ensures that a broad range of projects can benefit from NJCEP’s generous incentives.

Key Programs for Commercial Rebates in New Jersey

Pay for Performance – New Construction

The Pay for Performance model under NJCEP offers a unique approach to incentivizing energy efficiency in new construction projects. This program is designed for commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings with over 50,000 square feet of conditioned space. The incentives are directly linked to energy savings, encouraging a comprehensive, whole-building approach to energy efficiency. Participants can unlock incentives at various milestones, from the submission of energy reduction plans to achieving ENERGY STAR certification. This performance-based model not only promotes energy savings but also ensures that businesses are rewarded for exceeding energy code requirements.

Multi-Measure: Customer Tailored Energy Efficiency Pilot (CTEEP) Program

For mid-to-large commercial and industrial customers, the Customer Tailored Energy Efficiency Pilot (CTEEP) Program offers a flexible framework to bundle multiple energy-saving measures into a single application. This program is particularly attractive for sectors such as K-12 schools, colleges, hospitals, office buildings, and industrial facilities. By allowing businesses to customize their energy efficiency projects, the CTEEP Program simplifies the application process and maximizes the potential for energy savings.

SmartStart New Construction Buildings

The SmartStart program is another cornerstone of NJCEP, offering both fixed and savings-based incentives for selecting energy-efficient equipment in new construction and renovation projects. By incentivizing the adoption of advanced technologies, SmartStart empowers businesses to enhance building performance while reducing energy consumption and operational costs. Whether it’s lighting, HVAC systems, or other energy-consuming equipment, the SmartStart program makes energy efficiency an attractive option for New Jersey businesses.

Combined Heat & Power (CHP) and Fuel Cell Installations

New Jersey’s commitment to energy efficiency and grid resilience is further exemplified by its incentives for combined heat & power (CHP) and fuel cell installations. These technologies not only improve sustainability but also contribute to grid stability by reducing demand on the electric power grid. Eligible projects must meet specific efficiency criteria, and NJCEP offers support through feasibility studies and a streamlined application process. This initiative aligns with the state’s broader goals of reducing carbon footprints and promoting renewable energy solutions.

Solar Energy Incentives in New Jersey

Solar energy remains a key component of New Jersey’s renewable energy strategy, with several programs designed to promote solar adoption across the state. These programs are part of the broader Commercial Rebates in New Jersey, making solar an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs.

Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI) Program

At the heart of New Jersey’s solar initiatives lies the Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI) Program. Established by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU), the SuSI Program aims to provide long-term incentives for new solar generation facilities across the state. The program is divided into two sub-programs:

1. Administratively Determined Incentive (ADI) Program: This sub-program offers administratively set incentives for net-metered residential projects, net-metered non-residential projects, and community solar projects of 5 MW (dc) or less. The ADI Program provides crucial financial support to offset the initial fees of installing solar energy systems, making it more accessible for businesses of all sizes.
2. Competitive Solar Incentive (CSI) Program: Geared towards larger projects, the CSI Program provides competitively set incentives for grid supply projects and net-metered non-residential projects greater than 5 MW (dc). While the first solicitation round faced challenges, subsequent rounds are expected to foster competition and drive down the costs of solar energy deployment.

Transition Incentive (TI) Program

The Transition Incentive (TI) Program serves as a bridge between legacy solar programs and the Successor Solar Incentive Program. Although the TI Program is no longer accepting new applications, existing projects continue to benefit from the incentives offered, ensuring that businesses that invested in solar energy under previous programs are not left behind.

Community Solar Energy Program

is designed to make solar energy more accessible to more residential homes. This program incentivizes eligible community solar facilities, allowing local neighborhoods to participate in the clean energy transition. By hosting solar installations in diverse locations, such as rooftops, carports, and contaminated sites, the CSEP fosters community engagement and widespread adoption of renewable energy.

New Jersey Offshore Wind Strategic Plan

In addition to solar energy, New Jersey is embracing the potential of offshore wind to meet its clean energy goals. The state is positioned to become a leader in offshore wind development with its strategic plan to achieve 7,500 megawatts of offshore wind energy by 2035. This initiative not only supports the state’s renewable energy targets but also contributes to economic growth and job creation.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Incentives in New Jersey

New Jersey is also making significant strides in promoting electric vehicles (EVs) through various incentives and programs aimed at both individuals and businesses.

Charge Up New Jersey

Since its inception in January 2020, the Charge Up New Jersey program has been a cornerstone of the state’s efforts to create a cleaner and more sustainable transportation landscape. This initiative provides rebates of up to $4,000 for purchasing or leasing eligible zero-emission vehicles, such as battery electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. By transitioning to EVs, businesses can greatly decrease their carbon footprint, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.

Residential Charger Program

To further support EV adoption, the Charge Up New Jersey program includes the Residential Charger Program, which provides a $250 rebate for the purchase of an eligible charger for home use. For businesses, particularly those with a fleet of EVs, this initiative ensures that EVs are always ready for the road, reducing the need for frequent trips to public charging stations.

Multi-Unit Dwelling (MUD) EV Charger Incentive

Recognizing the importance of community charging infrastructure, the MUD EV Charger Incentive program encourages owners and operators of multi-unit dwellings to install EV chargers for residents and guests. This program provides incentives of up to $4,000 for the purchase of a dual-port, networked Level-Two EV charging station. Additional support is available for installations in Overburdened Municipalities or low and moderate-income developments, ensuring that EV adoption is accessible to all communities.

EV Tourism Program

The EV Tourism program is another innovative initiative aimed at enhancing EV charging infrastructure in tourist destinations across New Jersey. By offering grants of up to $5,000 for Level-Two chargers and up to $50,000 for DC Fast Chargers, the program encourages tourism venues to embrace clean transportation and attract environmentally conscious visitors.

Clean Fleet EV Incentive Program

Local and state governments play a crucial role in leading the transition to electric fleets. The Clean Fleet EV Incentive Program supports government entities in New Jersey as they switch to EVs for their fleets. With grants of up to $4,000 for light-duty battery electric vehicles and additional support for Class 2b-6 vehicles and public Level-Two chargers, this program accelerates the adoption of clean transportation solutions.

Utility Programs Supporting Commercial Rebates in NJ

In addition to state programs, several utility companies in New Jersey offer additional incentives for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. These utilities include Atlantic City Electric, PSE&G, Rockland Electric, and Jersey Central Power & Light, among others. Businesses can benefit from these incentives by covering up to 90% of combined charger purchase and installation costs, making energy-efficient upgrades more accessible and affordable.

Maximizing Your Business’s Potential with Commercial Rebates in NJ

New Jersey’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency is reflected in the wide range of commercial rebates and incentives available in 2024. By leveraging these opportunities, businesses can significantly reduce their energy costs, enhance their sustainability, and contribute to the state’s clean energy goals. Whether through NJCEP, solar incentives, EV programs, or utility offerings, New Jersey businesses have a unique opportunity to invest in a more sustainable future.

Don’t miss out on the chance to unlock substantial financial savings and position your business as a leader in energy efficiency and sustainability. Contact Incentive Rebate360 to gain access to financial savings for your business. Contact us today by calling 480-653-8180, emailing [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below!