Pennsylvania House Bill HB1155

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/7/25
• Refer: 4/7/25

Caption

Providing for community solar facilities; imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, electric distribution companies and subscriber organizations; and providing for prevailing wage and labor requirements and for ratepayer protections.

Impact

If enacted, HB1155 will create significant changes in the state's energy landscape. It mandates that community solar facilities provide monetary bill credits to subscribers proportional to their energy usage, thereby offering them savings on their electricity bills. Furthermore, it aims to ensure customer participation across various economic groups and requires electric distribution companies to maintain transparency in billing and management of these subscriptions. The bill also emphasizes creating regulations that enhance low-income participation in solar initiatives, potentially increasing energy equity within the state.

Summary

House Bill 1155, known as the Community Solar Act, seeks to promote the development and operation of community solar facilities in Pennsylvania. The bill outlines a framework through which electric distribution customers can subscribe to community solar facilities, enabling them to receive bill credits for their participation while fostering access to renewable energy sources. The intent is to provide more affordable energy options, particularly benefiting renters and low-to-moderate income households who may not have the capability to invest in traditional solar installations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1155 appears largely positive, particularly among environmental advocates and community groups. Supporters argue that it will stimulate the local economy by creating jobs in renewable energy sectors and improving access to clean energy. However, some concerns exist regarding the implementation details and the potential for unintended consequences, such as the adequacy of protections for non-subscribing ratepayers. Advocates of the bill believe that it strikes a balance by directly addressing the specific needs of varied communities while contributing to the state's energy independence goals.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential regulatory burdens placed on electric distribution companies and the financial implications for ratepayers not participating in community solar programs. Critics may argue that the implementation of community solar could create additional costs that are passed onto non-subscribers, leading to a complex dynamic in energy pricing. Overall, while the bill aligns with broader renewable energy goals, the debate about effective and equitable execution continues.