Harrisburg, Pa (July 10, 2024) – Legislation to support Pennsylvania schools in adopting solar energy passed the Pennsylvania Senate today and is one step closer to becoming law.
The “Solar for Schools” legislation (House Bill 1032) creates a grant program for school districts, intermediate units, career and technical schools, charter schools, and community colleges to fund solar energy projects.
State Senator Carolyn Comitta, minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, voted in favor of the bill, which was supported by both environmental advocacy organizations and labor groups.
“As schools look to cut operational costs and reduce carbon emissions, transitioning to cheaper and cleaner energy sources like solar is a no-brainer, said Comitta. “I am proud to vote for this bill and sponsor the companion legislation in the Senate. By easing the upfront costs of adopting solar on schools in Chester County and across the Commonwealth, this program will help create good-paying jobs, meet our climate action goals, and save taxpayer dollars in the long run.”
The bill also requires workers to be paid the prevailing wage and prioritizes union labor to help create family-sustaining jobs within local communities.
Under the legislation, grants will cover the costs of the purchase and installation of solar equipment, permit fees, energy storage, utility interconnection, and any other costs approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
The legislation, introduced by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, passed the Pennsylvania Senate by a vote of 42-7 and now goes back to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for final approval.