Pennsylvania Legislators Have an Opportunity to Unlock Community Solar Benefits for All

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2024

Media Contact: Ariella Sult, asult@votesolar.org

HARRISBURG, PA – Pennsylvania legislators are heading back to the statehouse to deliberate on which final bills will make it through the 2024 session, and a community solar bill that would make clean energy more accessible across the state, is up for debate.

Vote Solar and Solar United Neighbors along with 60+ community organizations and partners, are advocating for the passage of Pennsylvania’s House Bill 1842, a bill that would bring the economic, social, and environmental benefits of community solar to residents across the Commonwealth. As Pennsylvania faces the urgent need to transition to clean energy, this bill offers a cost-effective and equitable solution for households, businesses, schools, and other community institutions to access solar power—regardless of income level, credit score, or housing situation.

Community solar projects offer a transformative opportunity to break down the barriers that have historically prevented many Pennsylvanians from harnessing the power of the sun. Families who rent, those with older or shared roofs, and individuals facing financial constraints often cannot install traditional rooftop solar panels. House Bill 1842 paves the way for these residents to access affordable and reliable solar energy by participating in shared community solar programs.

The bill would also create thousands of jobs across the state, particularly in the building trades, and to stimulate economic growth in both urban and rural areas. By capitalizing on federal incentives, Pennsylvania can unlock a clean energy economy that delivers lower utility bills, good-paying jobs, and improved public health for communities that have been disproportionately affected by rising costs of living and environmental degradation.

While community solar is thriving in 22 other states and the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania has yet to embrace this fundamental policy. House Bill 1842 offers robust consumer protections, maximizes benefits for low-wealth communities, and includes strong labor standards—all while ensuring that community solar projects do not compete for funding with other essential programs.

Statements from organizations in support of HB 1842:

“All Pennsylvanians deserve lower energy bills, clean air, and a safe climate – and legislators have a clear chance to deliver.” said Stephan Roundtree, Deputy Program Director, Northeast & Mid-Atlantic at Vote Solar. “Passing community solar legislation will offer countless opportunities to strengthen Pennsylvania communities  – unlocking monthly bill savings, spurring good local jobs, and creating new tax revenues across the Commonwealth.”

“Community solar levels the playing field and allows everyone with an electric bill to access the benefits of solar energy,” said Monica Cary, Pennsylvania Program Director, Solar United Neighbors

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