Solar Energy and Brownfields in New Jersey

New Jersey is a leader in solar energy, second only to California in installed capacity. The state creatively uses brownfields for solar farms, turning contaminated sites into power sources. Brownfields offer infrastructure advantages, reducing costs. However, solar farms remain expensive, with debates on funding and subsidies. Despite challenges, solar farms have proven resilient, and plans for expansion continue as solar technology costs decrease.

Which state is New Jersey second to in terms of installed solar electric capacity?

• New York

• California

• Florida

• Texas

What is the primary challenge for densely populated states like New Jersey in expanding solar energy?

• Finding space for solar arrays

• Lack of sunlight

• High cost of solar panels

• Opposition from residents

What was the previous use of the Hackensack site before it became a solar farm?

• A gas plant

• A shopping mall

• A landfill

• A coal mine

How many homes can the Hackensack solar site potentially supply power to?

• 200 homes

• 50 homes

• 100 homes

• 170 homes

Why are brownfields considered good locations for renewable energy development?

• They receive more sunlight

• They are cheaper to clean up

• They have existing infrastructure

• They are always located in rural areas

What is one of the benefits of siting a solar farm on a brownfield?

• No need for any cleanup

• Proximity to water sources

• Higher energy output

• Lower land costs

What is the main concern of the state's electric ratepayers advocate regarding PSEG's solar investment?

• Insufficient subsidies

• Environmental impact

• High costs

• Lack of technology

How much does PSEG claim it costs customers per month to support clean energy generation?

• 30 cents

• 20 cents

• 10 cents

• 40 cents

What natural event did the Kearny landfill solar farm withstand without significant damage?

• Tornado

• Earthquake

• Hurricane Sandy

• Flood

What is the expected trend for brownfields as solar technology costs decrease?

• They will be abandoned

• They will be used for agriculture

• They will become more expensive

• They will become solar sites