The Morris County Improvement Authority is running a renewable energy initiative known as the Morris Model, which is financed with county-guaranteed bonds.
So far, county officials are working on a plan that will see solar panels installed at 14 area schools and five county-owned buildings. The school districts are expected to save 35 percent on energy costs for the first year alone, while the county can expect electricity savings of up to 20 percent.
By using county bonds to finance the project, school districts and other participants will not be saddled with up-front installation costs, or interest on long-term debts. This is just one example of how New Jersey has earned a distinction for itself as one of the most solar-friendly states.
Distributed solar is actually becoming an increasingly popular clean energy solution nationwide. Utilities and companies get to benefit from clean electricity with distributed solar projects, while avoiding unwanted hassles involving permitting and land acquisition.
