The Time for Solar in Pennsylvania is Coming—Let’s Help Push the Initiative Forward

Written by Kathy Cook, LWVPA Environmental Policy Director

There is rare bipartisan support for solar initiatives in the General Assembly.

Senator Brown’s (R) Community Solar Bill (SB550) would lower electric rates for residents and businesses and create sustainable jobs. Representative Fiedler (D) has a Solar in Schools Bill (HB137), which would lower school energy bills and allow more funds to go directly to student instruction. PA Local Solar Programs (HB330) proposed by Stambaugh (R) would allow access to local solar projects, and consumers could have lower energy rates. Representative Nielson (D) proposed two bills, HB518, and HB520, which would create sales and property tax exemptions for solar installations. With bipartisan interest in solar, now is the time for citizens to show support for their efforts. We can create real change with your efforts.

Three Republican bills, SB211, SB455, and HB925, are concerned with the bonding and decommissioning of solar installations.

Several of these bills are working their way through various committees. Local league members can help push these bills forward by contacting their legislators and key committee members. Constituent support often helps move legislation forward. Pennsylvanians need to help mitigate the climate disaster, and moving to renewable energy is a massive step in the right direction. Pennsylvanians must stand up and demand a sustainable future for our children and grandchildren.