New Jersey's SREC-II Pricing Review: Why March 2026 Is Your Critical Deadline to Go Solar

If you've been thinking about going solar in New Jersey, the clock is ticking. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) is scheduled to review SREC-II pricing in March 2026—just weeks away—and industry experts warn that rates could drop significantly for new applicants.

Right now, residential solar owners earn a guaranteed $85 for every SREC-II certificate they generate, locked in for 15 years from their system's interconnection date. But once the NJBPU completes its March review, new solar installations could face substantially lower incentive rates, potentially reducing the value of going solar by thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your system.

This creates an urgent window of opportunity: homeowners who complete their Part 1 (pre-installation) application before the March review will lock in the current $85/SREC-II rate, while those who wait could see significantly reduced payments for the next 15 years.

Let's break down what's at stake, why the review is happening, and exactly what you need to do to secure the best possible solar incentive rate before the deadline.

Understanding SREC-II: New Jersey's Premier Solar Incentive

Before diving into the March 2026 review, it's important to understand what SREC-II certificates are and why they matter so much to New Jersey homeowners.

What Is SREC-II?

SREC-II (Solar Renewable Energy Certificate-II) is New Jersey's fixed-incentive solar program, part of the larger Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI) Program established in 2021. Under this program:

• You earn one SREC-II certificate for every 1,000 kWh (1 megawatt-hour) your solar system produces
• Each certificate is currently worth $85 for residential net-metered systems
• Payments are guaranteed for 15 years from your system's interconnection approval date
• Certificates are sold to utilities who need them to meet state renewable energy requirements
• The program is administered by InClime on behalf of NJBPU

How Much Money Are We Talking About?

Let's look at real numbers for an average New Jersey solar installation:

Typical 8 kW residential system:

• Annual production: ~9,600 kWh
• SREC-II certificates generated per year: 9.6
• Annual SREC-II income (at $85/certificate): $816
• 15-year SREC-II income: $12,240

Larger 12 kW system:

• Annual production: ~14,400 kWh
• SREC-II certificates generated per year: 14.4
• Annual SREC-II income (at $85/certificate): $1,224
• 15-year SREC-II income: $18,360

This income comes in addition to your electricity bill savings, making SREC-II payments a critical component of solar economics in New Jersey. For many homeowners, SREC-II income can reduce the payback period for their solar investment by 2-3 years.

The "Lock-In" Advantage

Here's the critical feature that makes the March 2026 deadline so important: once you receive your State Certification Number, your SREC-II rate is locked in for the full 15-year program term, even if rates change for future applicants.

This means:

• If you apply now at $85/SREC-II, you'll earn $85 for all 15 years
• If rates drop to $70/SREC-II after the March review, new applicants get $70 while you still get $85
• Your locked-in rate is guaranteed regardless of future program changes

This lock-in feature has protected earlier participants who secured $90/SREC-II rates before the March 2023 reduction to $85. They continue earning $90 while newer participants earn $85. The same dynamic will apply after the March 2026 review.

Why Is NJBPU Reviewing SREC-II Pricing in March 2026?

The NJBPU periodically reviews and adjusts SREC-II pricing based on several factors. Understanding why this review is happening helps predict what might change.

Balancing Solar Growth with Ratepayer Costs

The SuSI Program was designed to "minimize ratepayer cost" while encouraging solar development. The program's costs are ultimately passed to all New Jersey electricity customers through utility rate riders.

When SREC-II was launched in 2021, the NJBPU set incentive levels designed to support up to 3,750 megawatts of new solar generation by calendar year 2026. As that target approaches, the board must decide whether current incentive levels remain appropriate.

Monitoring Program Subscription Rates

The NJBPU tracks how quickly different program categories fill up. In 2024, New Jersey opened a 200 MW residential block, and industry sources indicate strong subscription rates.

When blocks fill quickly, it suggests incentive levels may be higher than necessary to achieve solar deployment goals. The board can reduce rates for subsequent blocks to control program costs while maintaining adequate solar growth.

Recent Legislative Pressure

There has been significant political pressure to reduce SREC program costs:

Spring 2025 Legislative Proposals: In March 2025, multiple bills were introduced that would have dramatically cut legacy SREC payments:

• Assembly Bill A5460 proposed reducing the Solar Alternative Compliance Payment (SACP) from $196 to just $50
• Senate Bill S4300 proposed eliminating solar renewable energy portfolio standards and replacing SRECs with fixed $95 payments

While these bills targeted the legacy SREC program (not SREC-II), they failed to advance before the June 2025 legislative recess—likely due to the November 2025 gubernatorial election. However, they signal ongoing political interest in reducing solar program costs.

Governor Murphy's Position: Former Governor Murphy's administration and BPU supported efforts to reduce SREC costs, viewing the payments as too generous given falling solar installation costs. However, Murphy's term ended in January 2026.

Governor Sherrill's Position: New Governor Mikie Sherrill took office on January 20, 2026, with a very different approach. She declared a utility affordability emergency and signed executive orders to "massively expand cheaper, cleaner power generation."

This political shift creates uncertainty: Will Sherrill's BPU appointees maintain or reduce SREC-II rates? The March 2026 review will provide the answer.

Falling Solar Installation Costs

Solar panel prices have declined significantly since the SuSI program launched in 2021. Industry data shows:

• Average residential solar costs dropped from $3.15/watt in 2021 to $2.76-2.86/watt in early 2026
• Equipment costs continue declining due to manufacturing improvements and competition
• Installation labor costs have stabilized or decreased in many markets

From an economic perspective, lower installation costs mean smaller incentives are needed to achieve the same payback periods for homeowners. The NJBPU may adjust SREC-II rates downward to reflect this reality while maintaining solar's financial attractiveness.

Precedent: The March 2023 Rate Reduction

The most telling indicator of what might happen in March 2026 is what happened in March 2023.

On March 13, 2023, the NJBPU adjusted SREC-II incentive levels for new applicants:

• Residential net-metered systems: Reduced from $90/SREC-II to $85/SREC-II (5.6% decrease)
• Small non-residential rooftop: Reduced from $100 to $95
• Community solar: Reduced from $95 to $90

Importantly, systems that had already received State Certification Numbers before March 13, 2023, continued earning at the higher rates. This established the "lock-in" precedent that makes acting before the March 2026 review so valuable.

What Could the March 2026 Review Bring?

While the NJBPU hasn't announced specific proposals, we can make informed predictions based on program economics, political dynamics, and market conditions.

Scenario 1: Status Quo ($85/SREC-II Maintained)

Likelihood: 20-30%

Under Governor Sherrill's energy affordability agenda and pro-solar stance, the board might maintain current rates to maximize residential solar deployment.

Supporting factors:

• Sherrill's executive orders prioritizing solar expansion
• Electricity rates up 22% year-over-year, creating political pressure to help consumers
• Smart solar permitting law reducing installation costs by $4,000, making solar more attractive even without SREC increases
• Community solar expansion as priority policy area

Impact on homeowners: No change in economics; no urgency to rush installation beyond normal considerations.

Scenario 2: Moderate Reduction ($70-75/SREC-II)

Likelihood: 50-60%

This scenario mirrors the March 2023 adjustment, reducing rates by approximately 12-18% to reflect lower installation costs while maintaining strong solar growth.

Supporting factors:

• Declining installation costs justify lower incentives
• Need to control ratepayer program costs
• Desire to stretch program funding to support more total installations
• Precedent from 2023 adjustment

Impact on homeowners: At $75/SREC-II (12% reduction):

• 8 kW system loses $96/year = $1,440 over 15 years
• 12 kW system loses $144/year = $2,160 over 15 years

At $70/SREC-II (18% reduction):

• 8 kW system loses $144/year = $2,160 over 15 years
• 12 kW system loses $216/year = $3,240 over 15 years

Scenario 3: Significant Reduction ($60-65/SREC-II)

Likelihood: 15-20%

A more aggressive cut could occur if the board determines that solar economics remain strong even at substantially lower incentive levels.

Supporting factors:

• Solar costs down 12% since 2021
• Federal tax credit expired for cash/loan purchases (making state incentives relatively more important, but also suggesting overall incentive "stack" should be reduced)
• Smart permitting saving $4,000 per installation
• Strong subscription rates suggesting current incentives exceed what's needed

Impact on homeowners: At $65/SREC-II (24% reduction):

• 8 kW system loses $192/year = $2,880 over 15 years
• 12 kW system loses $288/year = $4,320 over 15 years

At $60/SREC-II (29% reduction):

• 8 kW system loses $240/year = $3,600 over 15 years
• 12 kW system loses $360/year = $5,400 over 15 years

Scenario 4: Dramatic Cut ($50 or lower/SREC-II)

Likelihood: 5-10%

While unlikely given Governor Sherrill's pro-solar stance, the spring 2025 legislative proposals demonstrated appetite for dramatic reductions in some political quarters.

Supporting factors:

• Ratepayer cost concerns during electricity rate crisis
• Desire to redirect funding to other clean energy programs
• Political pressure from utilities concerned about distributed generation impacts

Impact on homeowners: At $50/SREC-II (41% reduction):

• 8 kW system loses $336/year = $5,040 over 15 years
• 12 kW system loses $504/year = $7,560 over 15 years

This level of reduction would substantially harm solar economics and likely slow residential deployment significantly.

The March 2026 Deadline: What You Need to Know

Critical Date: Part 1 Application Submission

To lock in the current $85/SREC-II rate, you must submit your Part 1 (pre-installation) application to the NJBPU before they announce the new pricing structure in March 2026.

The exact review completion date hasn't been announced, but March reviews typically conclude mid-to-late in the month. Industry sources expect an announcement by March 20-31, 2026.

Safe deadline strategy: Submit your Part 1 application by March 15, 2026 to ensure you're grandfathered into current rates.

Application Timeline: Working Backward

To meet the March 15 deadline, here's the realistic timeline:

Week of February 3-9, 2026 (NOW):

• Get solar quotes from 3-5 installers
• Compare proposals on system size, equipment, warranties, and pricing
• Check references and installer credentials
• Select your installer

Week of February 10-16, 2026:

• Sign installation contract
• Installer begins preparing Part 1 application
• Site assessment and engineering design completed
• Equipment specifications finalized

Week of February 17-23, 2026:

• Installer submits Part 1 application to NJBPU
• Application includes system design, equipment specs, and property information
• NJBPU issues State Certification Number (typically 1-2 weeks)

Week of February 24 - March 7, 2026:

• Receive State Certification Number
• SREC-II rate now locked at $85 for 15 years
• Installation can proceed on normal timeline (no rush)

March - May 2026:

• Installation completed
• Submit Part 2 (post-installation) application
• Utility interconnection approval
• Begin generating SREC-II certificates

What If You Miss the Deadline?

If you don't submit Part 1 before the March review concludes:

• You'll receive whatever new SREC-II rate the NJBPU establishes
• That new rate will be locked in for your 15-year program term
• You cannot retroactively claim the higher $85 rate

Example: If the new rate is $70/SREC-II and you have a 10 kW system:

• You'll earn $70/certificate instead of $85
• Loss per year: $150 (10 certificates × $15 difference)
• Total 15-year loss: $2,250

For larger systems, the losses compound:

• 15 kW system: $3,375 over 15 years
• 20 kW system: $4,500 over 15 years

Other Considerations: Why Act Now Makes Sense Anyway

Even if the SREC-II rate stays at $85, there are compelling reasons to move forward with solar in early 2026:

Electricity Rates Are at Record Highs

New Jersey electricity bills are up more than 22% compared to last year, driven by PJM capacity auction results. Average residential rates now exceed $0.32/kWh in many utility territories.

Solar allows you to lock in a predictable energy cost (essentially zero after payback) while your neighbors continue facing volatile and rising utility rates. Every month you delay is another month of paying peak utility prices instead of generating your own power.

Smart Solar Permitting Savings Coming Soon

New Jersey's Smart Solar Permitting law will create an automated approval system by June 2027, reducing permitting costs by $3,800-$4,500. However, installers familiar with current processes will be first to leverage the new system effectively.

Getting your solar system ordered now means:

• Establishing relationship with quality installer before summer rush
• Avoiding the surge in demand when automated permitting launches
• Potentially negotiating better prices during current slower season

Federal Tax Credit Already Expired

The 30% federal solar investment tax credit expired on December 31, 2025, for cash and loan purchases. While third-party owned systems (leases/PPAs) can still benefit through 2027, the clock is ticking on all federal solar incentives.

This makes state incentives like SREC-II even more valuable—and makes locking in the highest possible SREC-II rate before March 2026 that much more important.

Equipment Availability and Supply Chain

Solar equipment supply chains can experience disruptions from:

• Manufacturing delays
• Port congestion
• Trade policy changes
• Demand surges

Ordering now provides buffer against potential supply chain issues and ensures you get the equipment you want at current prices. Some premium solar panels and inverters have lead times of 6-12 weeks.

Installation Weather Windows

Spring and summer are peak installation seasons in New Jersey due to favorable weather. Installers' schedules fill up quickly as weather improves.

Acting now means:

• More flexible installation scheduling
• Potentially faster completion
• Avoiding the rush when automated permitting launches mid-2027

Property Tax and Home Sale Considerations

New Jersey's solar property tax exemption prevents your solar system from increasing your property tax assessment. However, solar does increase your home's market value (typically 4-5%).

If you're planning to sell your home in the next few years, having solar already installed and generating SREC-II income at the $85 rate creates a stronger selling point than promising a future buyer they could go solar at potentially lower incentive rates.

How to Lock In Your $85/SREC-II Rate: Step-by-Step Guide

Here's exactly what you need to do in the next 6 weeks to guarantee the current SREC-II rate:

Step 1: Get Multiple Solar Quotes (Week of Feb 3-9)

Action items:

• Use online marketplaces (EnergySage, Solar.com, SolarReviews) to request quotes from multiple installers
• Contact at least 3-5 local New Jersey solar installers directly
• Specify you need a system designed and application submitted by mid-March
• Ask about their current workload and ability to meet tight timeline

What to compare:

• System size (kW) and estimated annual production (kWh)
• Equipment brands and warranties (panels, inverters, racking)
• Total system cost and financing options
• Installation timeline from contract signing to completion
• SREC-II registration and management services
• References from recent customers

Red flags to avoid:

• Installers who don't understand SREC-II deadline urgency
• Prices significantly above or below market ($2.76-2.86/watt average)
• Pushy sales tactics or pressure to sign immediately
• Unwillingness to provide references or proof of licensing
• Vague answers about Part 1 application timeline

Step 2: Select Installer and Sign Contract (Week of Feb 10-16)

Action items:

• Choose the installer that best balances price, quality, and timeline
• Review contract carefully, especially sections on SREC-II registration
• Verify contract explicitly states installer will submit Part 1 application by March 15, 2026
• Confirm contract includes SREC-II administration services (or hire separate aggregator)
• Pay deposit (typically 10-30% of system cost)

Contract must-haves:

• Guaranteed submission of Part 1 application by March 15, 2026
• System specifications (panel wattage, inverter model, total DC capacity)
• Total system cost and payment schedule
• Installation timeline estimate
• Warranty details for equipment and workmanship
• SREC-II registration and ongoing reporting services

Step 3: Site Assessment and Engineering (Week of Feb 10-16)

What happens:

• Installer conducts detailed site visit
• Structural assessment of your roof
• Electrical system evaluation
• Shading analysis
• Engineering plans and drawings prepared
• Equipment specifications finalized

Your role:

• Provide access to property and electrical panel
• Share 12 months of utility bills for load analysis
• Disclose any planned roof repairs or replacements
• Review and approve final system design

Timeline: Most installers can complete this phase in 3-7 days if prioritized as urgent.

Step 4: Part 1 Application Submission (Week of Feb 17-23)

What the installer submits:

• Completed SuSI ADI Program Application (Part 1)
• Site plan showing array layout
• Equipment specifications and datasheets
• Electrical one-line diagram
• Proof of property ownership or permission letter
• Application fee payment

Timeline:

• Application preparation: 2-5 days
• NJBPU processing: 1-2 weeks typically
• State Certification Number issued

Your role:

• Provide any requested documentation promptly
• Sign permission forms
• Follow up with installer weekly on application status

Step 5: Receive State Certification Number (Week of Feb 24 - Mar 7)

What happens:

• NJBPU reviews application for completeness
• State Certification Number assigned
• SREC-II rate locked in at $85/certificate for 15 years
• Certificate indicates project type (residential net-metered) and incentive rate

Critical: Once you have your State Certification Number with $85/SREC-II rate, you're protected from any future rate changes. The March review results won't affect you.

Step 6: Installation and Part 2 Application (March - May 2026)

Now you can relax on timeline:

• Installation proceeds on normal schedule (typically 1-3 months)
• After installation, installer submits Part 2 (post-installation) application
• Utility inspection and interconnection approval
• System commissioned and begins generating electricity
• SREC-II certificates begin accumulating

Your locked-in $85 rate is guaranteed regardless of what happens in the March 2026 review.

Managing Your SREC-II Certificates: Maximizing Value

Once your system is generating power, you'll need to manage the SREC-II certificates to convert them into cash.

How SREC-II Generation and Sales Work

Monthly generation reporting:

1. Your solar installer's monitoring system tracks production
2. Between the 1st and 15th of each month, submit meter readings to PJM GATS (Generation Attribute Tracking System)
3. GATS posts your SREC-II certificates 5-7 business days after submission
4. Certificates accumulate in your GATS account

Selling your SREC-IIs: You have two main options:

Option 1: Hire an SREC Aggregator (Recommended for most homeowners)

• Companies like SRECTrade, Knollwood Energy, or Sol Systems manage sales for you
• They handle all GATS reporting and certificate transfers
• Sales proceeds deposited directly to your bank account quarterly
• Commission typically 5% of SREC-II value ($4.25 per certificate)
• Easiest, most hands-off approach

Option 2: Self-manage through spot market

• You handle GATS reporting yourself
• Sell directly to buyers on spot market
• No commission costs (save $4.25 per certificate)
• More work: monthly reporting, finding buyers, managing transfers
• Requires understanding of GATS system and SREC markets

SREC-II vs. Legacy SREC Programs

It's important to understand that SREC-II (the current program) is completely different from legacy SREC programs that older solar installations still participate in:

Legacy SREC Program (2004-2021):

• Traded on open market with fluctuating prices
• Values ranged from $80-$300+ depending on supply/demand
• Significant price volatility and uncertainty
• Expired for new installations in 2021

SREC-II Program (2021-present):

• Fixed price ($85 for residential) locked in for 15 years
• No market volatility or uncertainty
• Predictable cash flow for financial planning
• Much simpler and more stable than legacy program

The fixed-price nature of SREC-II is what makes the March 2026 deadline so important—whatever rate you lock in will be your rate for the full 15 years, unlike the legacy program where values fluctuated annually.

Tax Implications of SREC-II Income

SREC-II payments are taxable income. Here's what you need to know:

Federal taxes:

• SREC-II income is reported as ordinary income on Schedule C or Schedule 1 (Form 1040)
• You may be able to deduct related expenses (aggregator fees, insurance)
• Consult a tax professional for guidance on proper reporting

New Jersey state taxes:

• SREC-II income is also taxable at state level
• Reported on NJ-1040 return
• Same deductible expenses as federal

Estimated quarterly payments: If your SREC-II income exceeds $1,000 annually, you may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties. For an 8 kW system earning $816/year, this likely won't apply, but larger systems should consult a tax advisor.

Net impact: Even after taxes, SREC-II income remains highly valuable. At a combined 30% effective tax rate:

• $85 SREC-II certificate nets $59.50 after tax
• Still worth $571/year for 8 kW system ($8,565 over 15 years)
• Still worth $857/year for 12 kW system ($12,855 over 15 years)

Real-World Case Studies: The Value of Acting Before Rate Changes

Let's look at actual New Jersey homeowners who benefited from acting before previous SREC rate changes:

Case Study 1: The Early Adopter (Secured $90/SREC-II in 2022)

Profile:

• South Jersey homeowner
• 10 kW system installed December 2022
• Submitted Part 1 application in October 2022, before March 2023 rate reduction

Results:

• Locked in $90/SREC-II rate (vs. $85 for later applicants)
• Generates approximately 12 SREC-IIs annually
• Extra $5 per certificate × 12 certificates = $60/year additional income
• Over 15 years: $900 bonus compared to neighbors who waited

Lesson: Even a $5 difference in SREC-II rates compounds to nearly $1,000 over the program term for a medium-sized system.

Case Study 2: The Procrastinator (Missed March 2023 Deadline)

Profile:

• Central Jersey homeowner
• 12 kW system installed August 2023
• Received quotes in February 2023 but delayed signing contract

Results:

• Got $85/SREC-II rate (vs. $90 available three months earlier)
• Generates approximately 14.4 SREC-IIs annually
• Lost $5 per certificate × 14.4 certificates = $72/year
• Over 15 years: $1,080 left on the table

Lesson: "Thinking about it" for a few extra months cost this homeowner over $1,000 in guaranteed income.

Case Study 3: The Strategic Planner (Acting Now for March 2026)

Profile:

• Northern New Jersey homeowner
• Planning 11 kW system for spring 2026 installation
• Reading this article in February 2026

Smart strategy:

• Getting quotes week of February 3-9, 2026
• Signing contract by February 15, 2026
• Installer submitting Part 1 by February 28, 2026
• Expecting State Certification Number by March 10, 2026

Projected results if rates drop to $70:

• Will lock in $85/SREC-II vs. $70 for later applicants
• Will generate approximately 13.2 SREC-IIs annually
• Difference: $15 per certificate × 13.2 certificates = $198/year
• Over 15 years: $2,970 saved by acting six weeks earlier

Lesson: The March 2026 deadline could be worth $3,000+ for average systems—far more than the 2023 rate change.

Frequently Asked Questions

When exactly is the NJBPU conducting the March 2026 review? The exact date hasn't been publicly announced. Based on previous reviews, expect an announcement between March 15-31, 2026. To be safe, submit your Part 1 application by March 15, 2026.

If I sign a contract now, do I have to complete installation by March 2026? No. You only need to submit your Part 1 (pre-installation) application before the review concludes. Installation can happen anytime after receiving your State Certification Number, and your locked-in rate won't change.

What if the March review increases rates instead of decreasing them? While possible, this is unlikely given falling installation costs and political pressure to control program costs. Even if rates increased, locking in $85 now guarantees you won't lose if rates later decrease.

Can I submit Part 1 myself without an installer? Technically yes, but not recommended. The application requires engineering plans, electrical diagrams, and equipment specifications that installers are better equipped to prepare accurately. Most installers include Part 1 submission in their service package.

What happens to my SREC-II rate if I add more panels later? Adding capacity to an existing system typically requires a new application and receives whatever SREC-II rate is current at the time of the addition. Your original system keeps its locked-in rate.

Do I need to sell my SREC-IIs immediately or can I hold them? You can hold SREC-II certificates, but there's little reason to with fixed pricing. Unlike legacy SRECs that fluctuated in value, SREC-IIs are always worth the same $85 (or whatever your locked-in rate is). Most homeowners sell quarterly for consistent cash flow.

What if I move before the 15-year SREC-II term ends? SREC-II rights transfer with the solar system. If you sell your home, the new owner takes over the SREC-II income stream. This actually increases your home's value—buyers pay more for homes with existing solar generating SREC income.

Are there any SREC-II application fees? There are no fees to the homeowner for SREC-II program participation. However, your installer may charge a fee for preparing and submitting the application (often included in total system price), and SREC aggregators charge commissions (typically 5%) when selling your certificates.

Can commercial properties participate in SREC-II? Yes, but with different incentive rates. Small non-residential net-metered systems (under 5 MW) currently receive $95/SREC-II for rooftop installations. The March 2026 review may also affect commercial rates.

What happens after my 15-year SREC-II term ends? After 15 years, your system may be eligible to generate NJ Class I RECs (Renewable Energy Certificates), though the value and market for these is different from SREC-IIs. Your system continues generating electricity and saving you money on utility bills even after SREC-II payments end.

The Bottom Line: Time Is Running Out

The math is simple and the stakes are high:

If you act now (before March 15, 2026):

• Lock in $85/SREC-II for 15 years
• Typical system earns $10,000-$18,000 in SREC income over program term
• Installation can proceed on normal timeline after rate is locked

If you wait until after the March review:

• Risk getting $70-$75/SREC-II or potentially even lower
• Potential loss of $2,000-$5,000+ over 15 years depending on system size
• Same installation timeline, but lower guaranteed income

The choice is yours, but the deadline is real.

We're now in early February 2026. The NJBPU review will likely conclude by late March. That gives you approximately 6-7 weeks to:

1. Get quotes from multiple installers
2. Compare proposals and select your installer
3. Sign a contract
4. Allow installer to complete Part 1 application
5. Submit to NJBPU before the review concludes

This timeline is tight but absolutely achievable with focus and urgency. Don't let procrastination cost you thousands of dollars in guaranteed income.

Take Action Today

Step 1: Request quotes from at least three New Jersey solar installers this week. Explain that you need Part 1 submitted by mid-March to lock in current SREC-II rates.

Step 2: Compare proposals focusing on system size, equipment quality, total cost, and installer's commitment to meeting the March deadline.

Step 3: Sign a contract by February 15, 2026 with an installer who clearly understands the urgency and commits to March 15 Part 1 submission.

Step 4: Stay in close communication with your installer through February and early March to ensure the application stays on track.

Step 5: Confirm you've received your State Certification Number showing $85/SREC-II rate before the March review concludes.

The window is open right now, but it won't stay open forever. Six weeks from now, New Jersey homeowners who acted will have locked in $85/SREC-II rates for the next 15 years. Those who waited will be looking at whatever rates the NJBPU establishes in the March review—and potentially kicking themselves for not acting when they had the chance.

Don't be the homeowner who looks back in April 2026 and says "I wish I'd acted in February."

The best time to lock in your SREC-II rate was yesterday. The second-best time is right now.

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. SREC-II program details, rates, and deadlines are subject to change by the NJBPU. Consult with licensed solar installers and tax professionals for guidance specific to your situation. Information current as of February 3, 2026.