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03/28/2024 11:21 AM
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20210&cosponId=34555
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House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted: February 4, 2021 05:40 PM
From: Representative Lori A. Mizgorski
To: All House members
Subject: PA Local Solar Legislation (Prior HB 1970)
 
In the near future, I will reintroduce legislation to increase and encourage solar energy development in Pennsylvania. My legislation 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
  • Ensures that customers receive high-quality customer service from their electric distribution companies and not third-party administrators.
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.

My 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 me in co-sponsoring this important legislation.
 



Introduced as HB1161