PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center Wednesday released Lighting the Way: The Top Ten States that Helped Drive America’s Solar Boom in 2013, highlighting strong solar growth across the nation including a 16 percent increase in Pennsylvania in 2013. 

The U.S. Energy Information Administration ranks Pennsylvania among the top 10 states nationally in grid-connected solar installations.  The Solar Energy Industries Association ranks Pennsylvania 14th in terms of installed solar electric capacity with 38 MW.

“Solar energy is emerging as a go-to energy option here in Pennsylvania and across the country,” said Sophie Grueterich, Field Organizer with PennEnvironment Research and Policy Center. “Thanks to the commitment of Pennsylvania’s leaders, this pollution-free energy option is poised to play a major role in helping us meet the goal of 20,000 solar roofs that the city of Philadelphia resolved to reach by 2025.”

"Philadelphia can lead by example," said Councilman Bobby Henon (6th District). "Going solar can build a new economy - a new economy that includes numerous family-sustaining scientific, R&D, manufacturing and construction jobs, in a way that is much safer for our environment."

“Photovoltaic, along with other renewable-energy technologies are reliable and pollution-free and a rapidly growing sector of the energy market. At IBEW Local Union #98, we combine a mix of experienced students, top-notch instructor and the latest and greatest equipment to train our members. The goal of our program is to create a fundamental understanding of the core concepts necessary to work with all PV systems, including: system components, site analysis, PV module criteria, mounting solutions and most important, safety. For over 12 years, the IBEW has been dedicated to hands-on labs, online solar photovoltaic training, and renewable energy education. Currently all five of our buildings are equipped with PV systems that generated 100 KW.” Stated Ignatious Fletcher, of the IBEW, “I believe that Solar PV Systems can have a strong and vibrant future in Philadelphia and the State of Pennsylvania.  As an industry leader, the IBEW is dedicated to staying within budget, and deliver good value for our customers.”

“Pennsylvania officials deserve tremendous credit for recognizing the environmental and economic benefits of solar and taking action to make it a reality,” concluded Grueterich. “As more people see the benefits of solar energy, we’re confident clean, limitless energy from the sun will be a growing part of Pennsylvania’s plan to reduce pollution from power plants.”

A copy of the report is available online.

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