Pennsylvania Launches New Energy Initiative to Generate 50% of State’s Energy Needs with Solar Power
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has unveiled the Commonwealth’s new renewable energy initiative, which will see the State generate 50% of its electricity use from 10 new solar arrays.
This initiative – known as the Pennsylvania Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy (PA PULSE) – will make Pennsylvania the first state in the US to commit to getting half of its energy from solar power.
Lightsource bp will build, own, and operate the 10 solar arrays in six Pennsylvania counties: Columbia, Juniata, Crawford, Northumberland, Snyder, and York. In total, the arrays will supply 361,000 MWh of electricity annually to 16 Commonwealth agencies and reduce their carbon footprint by 157,800 metric tons per year – the equivalent of 34,000 gas-powered cars.
“This project aligns seamlessly with Governor Shapiro’s dedication to combatting climate change by significantly reducing carbon emissions. The successful installation and launch of the first three solar farms during the first quarter of [2024] created over 200 union jobs and is a promising start toward our renewable energy goals,” said Pennsylvania’s Department of General Services Secretary Reggie McNeil.
The solar arrays will be set back from nearby property lines and separated using discreet fencing, utilizing wildlife planted around the perimeter to avoid disrupting residents and prevent erosion.
To save Pennsylvania residents money on their electricity bills while providing reliable, sustainable electricity long-term, the State’s Department of General Services has entered into a 15-year fixed-price agreement with Constellation. This agreement ensures that even if energy costs rise, Pennsylvania’s rate will remain the same.
In addition to this initiative, Governor Shapiro is also proposing the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Act (PACER) to establish a Pennsylvania-specific cap-and-invest program. This will allow the State to determine its own cap on energy sector carbon pollution and invest directly in lowering consumers’ electricity bills.
Under PACER, 70% of the generated revenue will be returned to Pennsylvania residents as a rebate on their electricity bill, resulting in long-term price relief on energy costs.
“With our energy plan and innovative projects like PA PULSE, my Administration will take real action to address climate change pollution, ensure consumers pay less on their bills, and continue to ensure Pennsylvania maintains its energy independence for years to come,” said Governor Josh Shapiro.
