On October 22, Sen Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) and Rep. Lori Mizgorski (R-Allegheny) introduced legislation in the House and Senate to establish the PA Local Solar Program to support localized renewable energy projects.

The bills would authorize electric utilities to establish PA Local Solar subscriber programs through which electric customers could elect to purchase 100 percent localized solar energy, rather than the traditional grid mix.

PA Local Solar provides citizens and businesses with the choice to participate in an off-site solar program, but does not mandate participation, nor require any state funding.

The number of customers who would like to purchase solar energy is on the rise. However, those who live in apartment buildings or in a location that is not conducive to solar energy production, are currently not able to participate in Pennsylvania’s growing solar economy.

There are also many others who wish to participate, but lack the financial resources required for rooftop solar installations.

The legislation would these barriers and provides all customers with the opportunity to purchase solar energy from local solar projects.

“I am excited to introduce House Bill 1970, which expands access to solar power in Pennsylvania,” said Rep. Mizgorski. “Solar energy is the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy source available but is limited to the traditional grid mix. My legislation eliminates barriers and provides all customers with the opportunity to purchase solar energy from local solar projects, located right here in Pennsylvania. By providing all customers with the opportunity to choose solar power, we expand the reach of renewable energy into all communities.”

“In my district, I have seen a huge spike in folks interested in reducing their carbon footprint and making their homes more energy efficient, but sometimes – cost gets in their way,” said Sen. Costa. “It is great to work on an issue collaboratively with the opposite party and chamber, as well as the utility sector and environmental advocates. That's the kind of support that the PA Local Solar Program has that breadth of support.”

The program is supported by Duquesne Light in the Pittsburgh region.

“Duquesne Light is proud to support the PA Local Solar Program, which will provide our customers with the option to choose 100 percent localized renewable energy, even if they do not have access to rooftop solar,” said Steve Malnight, Duquesne Light Company President and CEO. “The program will allow us to better serve the growing number of customers who want solar energy and expand the reach of renewable energy in the Greater Pittsburgh area.”

NewsClips:

Sen. Costa, Rep. Mizgorski Introduce Identical Solar Bills

Click Here to read this week’s PA Environment & Energy NewsClips

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Agenda Added: House Environmental Committee To Hold Oct. 28 Hearing On Pennsylvania CO2 And Climate

House Democratic Policy Committee Hearing Nov. 1 On Climate Change/RGGI In Delaware County

PA Conservative Energy Forum Urges Senate Republican Policy Committee To Embrace Clean & Renewable Energy

Pittsburgh Mayor Responds To Trump On Energy/Climate: PA Has TWICE As Many Workers Employed By Clean Energy Than By Fossil Fuels

State GreenGov Council To Begin Analysis Of State Agency Green Practices

Harrisburg Ride & Drive Event Gives Public Hands-On Experience With Electric, Hybrid Vehicles

[Posted: October 23, 2019]

10/28/2019