Hello, fellow solar enthusiasts. Today, let’s talk about an exciting development in our quest for renewable energy, focusing on the Pennsylvanian governor’s pledge for a brighter, cleaner future. Imagine this: 30% renewable energy by 2030 in Pennsylvania! Think of the solar panels for your home there, the solar company that installs them, and the jobs created through this.
This isn’t just a lofty dream; solid research backs it up. According to a report by Advanced Energy United, MAREC Action, and American Clean Power Association about 129,000 jobs could be created, with over $13.1 billion invested in the state if this plan is pursued. Who wouldn’t like to see those numbers go up? Interestingly, clean energy seems to be a fantastic job creator and money-maker, but only if our elected officials help manifest this vision.
This brings us to the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards (AEPS) which was enacted back in 2004, setting a requirement for 8% of the state’s electricity to come from renewable sources as of 2021. Comparatively, nearby states like New York and New Jersey have raised their goals to 70% and 50% respectively by 2030.
The report indicates that every dollar invested in raising the AEPS to 30% by 2030 brings about $2 in benefits back to Pennsylvania. This balance optimizes the deployment of new solar array for home setups while supporting evolving energy sources, thereby responding to increasing electricity demand.
An intrinsic appeal to solar energy is the environmental benefit. The ‘30 by 30’ plan will reduce emissions equating to an estimated value of $6.5 billion! These monetary savings come from dodging the costs associated with health hazards and economic burdens brought about by air pollution and greenhouse emissions.
Now, I know what you might be wondering – what about the costs? The report estimates this plan could result in an increase of approximately $3.43 per month for the average residential customer. However, considering the net economic benefits totaling $8.3 billion anticipated from 2024 to 2035, this seems like a small price to pay.
Beyond just the economic and environmental benefits, there’s another boon to this plan. Think about the ratepayers getting a shield from fluctuating fossil fuel prices and enjoying a more predictable cost of electricity – an essential consideration for anyone thinking about installing solar panels for their homes.
We’re looking at a new era. One where an individual, looking up different solar companies for their home solar panel installation, is contributing to a monumental change. This change encompasses a clean, affordable, and reliable energy supply ensuring better job creation, health benefits, and a cleaner energy footprint for decades to come.
In summary, this is fantastic news for the solar industry, and I am buzzing with excitement about such a commitment towards renewable energy. The Keystone State, with the ’30 by 30′ plan, is ideally positioned on a path of sustainability and growth, showing us that solar isn’t just the future – it’s the present.
Original Article: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/02/05/increasing-alternative-energy-standards-would-bring-billions-in-investment-to-pennsylvania/
