Philadelphia Energy Authority Reopened Solarize Philly Program On Earth Day

Have you wanted to make the switch to solar? Now may be the time.

The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) reopened Solarize Phillyagain on Earth Day, with extra incentives to make solar energy affordable.

Solarize Philly is currently offering free remote solar assessments, based on the current COVID-19 guideline. On-site visits and installations will resume once guidance allows.

The PEA Solar Savings Grant program, designed for families of low and moderate income households, provides incentives like no up front cost an utility bill savings from year 1. Grants can cover up to half the cost of solar for eligible households. This program is aimed to support the city’s most vulnerable residents, saving on utility bills in the long run.

The Philadelphia Solar Rebate gives property owners switching to solar a one-time rebate payment(nearly $1000 for most row homes). Signed by Mayor Kenney in 2019, the rebate provides 10 cents per watt to commercial projects and 20 cents/watt to residential projects. (Note that this only applies to projects given permission to operate after July 1, 2019).

Providing Jobs While Making Solar an Easier Option

Boosting employment opportunities is essential for the economy. -especially during this global pandemic. Solar is one path forward for jobs.

PEA’s Bright Solar Futures is a partnership with the School District of Philadelphia to establish PA’s first vocational solar program for high school students, set to start at Frankford High School in Fall 2020.

“Of all energy projects, rooftop solar creates the most jobs per dollar invested, and the Philadelphia Energy Authority is training young Philadelphians to fill those positions. Solarize Philly participants are helping put people to work who need it the most.”

Council President Darrell Clarke, press release

Since the program’s launch in 2017, Solarize as 654 residential solar contracts under its belt. It’s the largest program of its kind in the nation.

Other solar policies passed in Philly that encourage solar powered project growth include a reduction in solar permit fees and the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program.

The C-PACE program aids commercial property owners in funding clean energy projects, water conservation, and energy efficiency.

Photo: Facebook, Solarize Philly

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Jamie is a junior at Villanova University double majoring in English and Communications with a specialization in Media Production. She is currently an Editorial Intern at Green Philly. In her spare time she enjoys writing poetry and short stories, along with watching movies and exploring Philly. View all posts by Jamie McClelland