Community solar plans stalled in Pennsylvania

Published: Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 9:25 pm

Community Solar Bill Faces Stumbling Blocks in Pennsylvania

A community solar bill in Pennsylvania, aimed at expanding access to renewable energy, has encountered delays in the legislative process. House Bill 1155, which previously passed the House, is currently stalled in the Senate. The bill's primary objective is to facilitate the development of community solar projects, allowing residents, including renters, to benefit from solar energy even if they cannot install panels on their own properties.

The bill's sponsor, Representative Schweyer, highlights the addition of anaerobic digesters to eligible projects as a key update. He emphasizes the need for a diverse energy portfolio, including solar, wind, hydropower, natural gas, and coal, to ensure a reliable electricity supply, keep consumer costs low, and maintain Pennsylvania's status as an energy exporter. Schweyer acknowledges that the state faces challenges, including retiring electricity sources and rising demand, which necessitate increased energy generation.

Schweyer attributes the bill's slow progress to several factors, including uncertainty surrounding federal renewable energy tax credits and the state's current budget impasse. He also notes the importance of Governor Shapiro's energy production priorities, expressing hope for solar's inclusion in the state's energy plans.

The bill's supporters point to the economic benefits of community solar, including job creation, technology investment, and property tax revenue. They also highlight the potential for dual-use facilities, such as farms that lease land for solar projects while maintaining agricultural production. The bill also includes decommissioning language to address project discontinuation.

The bill's progress is further complicated by political considerations, but Schweyer believes that a bipartisan approach to energy policy is possible. He emphasizes that community solar is just one component of a broader strategy to generate more electricity, keep prices affordable, and foster economic development.

BNN's Perspective:

The push for community solar in Pennsylvania reflects a broader trend toward diversifying energy sources and expanding access to renewable energy. While the bill faces hurdles, the potential benefits, including economic growth and consumer choice, are significant. A balanced approach that considers both traditional and renewable energy sources is crucial for Pennsylvania's energy future.

Keywords: community solar, Pennsylvania, energy, renewable energy, House Bill 1155, solar projects, electricity, economic development, energy policy, bipartisan, anaerobic digesters, consumer costs, energy exporter

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