The purpose of this chapter is facilitation of the construction,
installation, and operation of solar energy systems in the City of
Atlantic City, subject to reasonable restrictions, which will preserve
the public health, safety, and welfare, while also maintaining the
character of the City and avoid significant impacts to protected resources
such as important agricultural lands, endangered species, high value
biological habitats and other protected resources. It is the intent
of this chapter to encourage solar facilities that reduce reliance
on fossil fuels, increase local economic development and job creation,
reduce greenhouse gas emissions, assist New Jersey in meeting its
Renewable Portfolio Standards, and/or promote economic development
diversification.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
GROUND-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM
A solar energy system that is directly installed on solar
racking systems which are attached to an anchor in the ground and
wired to connect to an adjacent home or building. Ground-mounted systems
may be appropriate when insufficient space, structural and shading
issues, or other restrictions prohibit rooftop solar.
SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY, PRINCIPAL USE
An alternative energy facility that consists of one or more
ground-mounted, freestanding, or building-integrated solar collection
devices, solar energy related equipment and other associated infrastructure
with the primary intention of generating electricity or otherwise
converting solar energy to a different form of energy for primarily
off-site use.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM, ACCESSORY USE
Consists of one or more photovoltaic, concentrated solar
thermal, or solar hot water devices either freestanding, ground, building-integrated
or roof-mounted, as well as related equipment which is intended for
the purpose of reducing or meeting the energy needs of the property's
principal use.
SOLAR VOLTAIC FACILITY or SOLAR GARDEN
A set of solar collection devices designed to capture sunlight
and convert it to electricity primarily for off-site consumption and
use; some electricity may be used by an on-site building or structure.
Solar gardens can be designed as community solar systems in which
community members can own shares in the solar system; subscribe to
receive the generated solar power; or can purchase the output of the
solar system to offset their own utility bills.
Solar energy systems within an historic district or on an historic
resource property are not permitted unless written approval or a certificate
of appropriateness has been granted by the Historic Preservation Commission
as established by City of Atlantic City ordinance.
Solar-ready zoning should be considered as one among multiple
considerations in planning new developments.
Fees are established in line with N.J.A.C. 5:23-4.20: N.J.A.C.
5:23-4.20(c)2.iii(13). For photovoltaic systems, the fee shall be
based on the designated kilowatt rating of the solar photovoltaic
system as follows:
A. One to 50 kilowatts, the fee shall be $65;
B. Fifty-one to 100 kilowatts, the fee shall be $129; and
C. Greater than 100 kilowatts, the fee shall be $640.