2026 Passive Income Guide

The SuSI Program: How NJ Homeowners Are Getting Paid ~$1,000/Year to Go Solar

Updated Feb 15, 2026 | Sunshine Solar Energy

Most homeowners in New Jersey switch to solar for one reason: to lower their electric bill. But there is a second financial benefit that is unique to our state, and many people leave it on the table.

It is called the Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI) Program.

Unlike “Bill Credits” which just reduce what you owe the utility, the SuSI program sends you actual, deposit-able cash payments for 15 years. Here is how the 2026 program works and how to claim your share.

What is an SREC-II?

New Jersey has a mandate to produce clean energy. When your residential solar system produces 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, you earn one credit, known as an SREC-II.

Under the current 2026 ADI (Administratively Determined Incentive) block, the state has fixed the value of these credits for residential projects at exactly $85.00 each.

The Math: How Much Can You Earn?

Let’s look at a typical New Jersey home with a 10 kW solar system. This system will produce roughly 12,000 kWh of energy per year.

That is $1,020 a year in direct income, completely separate from the $2,000+ you save on your electric bill. Over the guaranteed 15-year term, that is over $15,000 in passive income.

Is it Taxable?

Yes. Unlike the 30% Federal Tax Credit (which offsets tax liability), SREC income is considered earned income. You will likely receive a 1099 form at the end of the year.

However, most homeowners find that the income far outweighs the small tax bill attached to it. It effectively pays for your system’s maintenance or helps pay down the loan faster.

How Do I Enroll?

The paperwork for the SuSI program is complex and must be filed with the NJ Board of Public Utilities (BPU). When you work with Sunshine Solar, our administrative team handles the entire registration process for you. We set up your account, and the checks start arriving automatically once the system is turned on.