Pennsylvania Eyes Community solar Expansion with New Bill
Harrisburg, Pa. — Pennsylvania lawmakers have introduced House Bill 1155 (HB 1155), a bipartisan effort aimed at establishing community solar programs across teh commonwealth. Supported by the Our Solar PA Coalition, organized labor, and various industry groups, the legislation seeks to foster local economic growth, bolster energy reliability, and reduce energy costs for residents.
Key Aspects of HB 1155:
- Economic Development: The bill aims to stimulate local economies through solar project development and job creation.
- Energy Reliability: Community solar projects are expected to contribute to a more resilient and decentralized energy grid.
- Cost Reduction: Subscribers to community solar programs are anticipated to see savings on their electricity bills.
- Consumer Protection: The bill includes provisions to protect consumers participating in community solar programs.
Building on Previous Efforts
Rep. Peter Schweyer (D-134) introduced the bill, which closely resembles legislation that successfully passed through the House in 2024. That previous bill garnered notable bipartisan support, signaling a potential for similar success this session.
Coalition Support and Priorities
The Our Solar PA Coalition, representing 36 organizations statewide, has voiced strong support for HB 1155. The coalition emphasizes that the bill incorporates several of its key priorities, including:
- Guaranteed savings for subscribers.
- Strong consumer protections to ensure fair practices.
- Seamless integration of community solar credits with subscribers’ existing utility bills.
Industry Viewpoint
Dennis Affinati, International VP of the IBEW 3rd District, highlighted the timeliness of the legislation, stating:
With the recent proclamation that PJM expects electricity usage to triple from the initial projections, now is the time to enact legislation such as Community Solar. This will help expand solar markets to members of the community nonetheless of geographic or financial limitations.
Dennis Affinati, International VP, IBEW 3rd District
Affinati further emphasized the role of community solar in workforce development and Pennsylvania’s energy future:
By creating this prospect, we will help satisfy the demands of consumers while training the workforce for the future energy economy. The IBEW will always support responsible energy projects regardless of fuel source and we feel Community Solar will play a key role in Pennsylvania’s energy portfolio going forward.
Dennis Affinati, International VP, IBEW 3rd District
The Meaning of Community Solar
Community solar programs offer a pathway for residents and businesses to access the benefits of solar energy without needing to install panels on their own properties. This is particularly beneficial for those who rent, live in apartments, or have roofs unsuitable for solar panel installation. By subscribing to a local community solar project, participants can recieve credits on their electricity bills for their share of the energy produced.
Looking Ahead
As HB 1155 moves through the legislative process, stakeholders are optimistic about its potential to unlock the benefits of community solar for Pennsylvanians. The bill’s focus on economic development, energy reliability, and consumer protection positions it as a significant step toward a more sustainable and equitable energy future for the commonwealth.
