New Jersey's largest community solar owner and operator had the bright idea to cover storage space with solar panels.

The project was seen through to its conclusion, and now an Extra Space Storage site in Neptune, NJ, boats a 6.5-megawatt (MW) community solar array totaling 800,000 square feet that will power over 1,400 nearby homes.

Solar Landscape, the solar operator, finished the project on August 1st, and it's one of 10 sites owned by the company and the first completed one of 46 "community solar projects" approved by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) in year 2 of the Community Solar Energy Pilot Program.

"Partnering with Solar Landscape on this project aligns perfectly with our commitments to be good corporate citizens and to participate in environmental initiatives that are positive for our communities, customers, employees, and shareholders," said McKall Morris, Senior Manager of Communications and Sustainability.

Community solar allows residents to subscribe to a nearby solar installation that is often hosted on a commercial property. The residents receive the electricity generated at a discounted rate, with extra savings for low-to-moderate income households.

NJBPU's Community Solar Energy Pilot Program expands access to renewable energy for those who previously could not install solar panels for reasons such as high costs, lack of roof control, or a shaded property.

As part of the community solar program, Solar Landscape has partnered with dozens of schools, nonprofits and community organizations. Along with Sustainable Jersey City, an environmental education nonprofit, the company awarded $20,000 in scholarships to high school seniors Through its Community Sustainability Challenge scholarships.

"The promise of community solar in New Jersey has arrived, and it's bringing guaranteed savings to residents at a time when many other costs are increasing," said Solar Landscape CEO Shaun Keegan. "We're proud to be partnering with Extra Space Storage on this project, which connects business leaders with the local community and saves residents money."

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