Statement: PennEnvironment applauds Gov. Wolf for largest government solar commitment in the U.S.

PennEnvironment

PHILADELPHIA — Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf announced a new renewable energy initiative Monday that is, to date, the largest solar commitment by any U.S. governing entity. All told, this initiative will supply nearly 50 percent of the state government’s electricity through seven new solar arrays slated for construction in Pennsylvania’s Columbia, Juniata, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder and York counties. When the project is completed in early 2023, it is expected to deliver 361,000 megawatts of electricity each year and reduce climate-triggering carbon pollution by nearly 158,000 metric tons annually.

PennEnvironment Executive Director David Masur issued the following statement:

“PennEnvironment congratulates Gov. Wolf and his staff on today’s exciting announcement. This historic commitment is the definition of leading by example and places our state at the front of the pack when it comes to this important form of renewable energy.

“Going solar is a triple win for Pennsylvania: it’s good for our planet, good for our health, and good for our pocketbooks. This smart decision is a stark reminder of the opportunity offered by going solar. Harnessing more of the sun’s energy means cleaner air, a more stable climate, more resilient communities and an energy source we can depend on that’s virtually pollution-free.

“This is a keystone solar policy for the renewable energy future in the Keystone State. Smart public policy decisions like the one have been the key drivers of the incredible growth we’ve seen in solar power across the nation.

“The solar commitment being made today by the state of Pennsylvania will produce enough electricity equal to powering nearly 33,000 homes each year, and reduce climate pollution that would match taking 34,000 cars off of our roads each year.

“Gov. Wolf is showing us the path forward for a clean energy future.  Now is the time for Pennsylvania to go solar.”

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PennEnvironment is dedicated to protecting our air, water and open spaces. We investigate problems, craft solutions, educate the public and decision-makers, and help the public make their voices heard in local, state and national debates over the quality of our environment and our lives. For more information, visit www.PennEnvironment.org.