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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | August 24, 2022 11:19 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative David H. Zimmerman |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Updating the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard to Expand Pennsylvania Energy Independence and Jobs Legislation |
| The Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards (AEPS) was passed in 2004 with the goal of attaining 7.5% of our electricity from Tier I resources. As of May 2021, the PUC reported that less than 1.5% of that electricity is actually generated in Pennsylvania; the remaining 6.0% is coming from projects located in other states, which are benefiting from those jobs, tax revenue, and investment. The majority of Tier I resources should be met from Pennsylvania-only resources. Existing contracts from out-of-state projects will be honored until they expire and the solar carve-out will be expanded from 0.5% to 2.0% by 2027 for rooftop and other on-site solar. Existing in-state large-scale solar would be grandfathered in the solar carve out. This proposal also places a limit on the price of the Solar Alternative Energy Credits as well as a 15-year lifetime expiration to protect consumers. Further, this proposal includes bonus credits for brownfields, abandoned mine lands, non-profit organizations, and carports. With skyrocketing electricity prices, we need to diversify our energy mix. We must continue positioning Pennsylvania as a national energy leader, and I hope you will join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation that will increase our energy diversity, attract private investment, and expand jobs in our state. |