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Pennsylvania State Senate
04/24/2024 11:08 AM
Pennsylvania State Senate
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=S&SPick=20210&cosponId=36124
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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

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Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2021 - 2022 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted: August 27, 2021 11:21 AM
From: Senator Daniel Laughlin and Sen. Jay Costa
To: All Senate members
Subject: PA Local Solar
 
In the near future, we will introduce legislation that expands access to solar power through a local and voluntary solar program, while ensuring adequate ratepayer protection.

The proposed program, PA Local Solar, would allow electric utilities in Pennsylvania to establish subscriber programs, by which electric customers can choose to purchase 100% local 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 PA Local Solar Program:
 
  • Ensures that the costs of projects are supported only by program subscribers and not by an electric distribution company’s entire customer base;
  • Does not require program subscription fees or cancellation fees;
  • Provides customers with a long-term secure “solar rate”;
  • Increases jobs for the installation of local solar farms;
  • Ensures consumer protections, as the entire program is overseen by the PUC;
  • Reserves a defined percentage for low-income participation while allowing these customers to remain in the Customer Assistance Program (CAP); and
 
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.

Our bill eliminates these barriers and provides 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 our communities, while creating jobs right here in the Commonwealth.

Please join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation.


 


Introduced as SB919