Since 2024, Pennsylvania BRIGHT has made solar energy affordable and accessible to families historically left out of the transition to affordable renewable energy options.
Through leasing, homeowners can install panels and secure monthly savings on energy bills without the burden of maintenance responsibilities.
As a mission-driven organization, Capital Good Fund is well-positioned to offer customer-friendly lease terms, including no minimum credit score requirement and no hidden fees.
The program is now open to any household earning under $165,000 annually or located in Low-Income, Disadvantaged Communities (LIDACs).
"Afterglow is proud to support the Pennsylvania BRIGHT residential program. Projects like Pennsylvania BRIGHT are critical for ensuring all communities can participate in a just climate transition,” noted Neal Parikh, Co-Managing Director Climate Justice Fund at Candide Group. “The savings these projects will generate ensure that Pennsylvania residents spend less of their income on energy bills. Capital Good Fund’s work in increasing access to affordable clean energy alternatives is a critical solution to rising energy costs affecting households across the US.”
The statewide expansion comes at a pivotal time for clean energy adoption.
The Federal Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit will be discontinued after December 31, 2025, but Pennsylvania BRIGHT allows low- and moderate-income (LMI) homeowners to benefit from solar energy savings even after the federal tax credit ends.
“Expanding Pennsylvania BRIGHT statewide is a milestone for energy equity,” said Andy Posner, Founder and CEO of Capital Good Fund. “At a time when energy costs are putting real pressure on working families, this program proves solar can be a powerful tool, opening doors so more Americans can save money and secure energy independence.”
With support from Leon Lowenstein Foundation, The Pittsburgh Foundation, The Heinz Endowments, Henry L. Hillman Foundation, and BQuest Foundation, Capital Good Fund launched pilot programs in Southwest and Southeast Pennsylvania last summer.
The Southeast program is powered by local partnerships with Philadelphia Green Capital Corporation (PGCC) and the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA), which operates Solarize Greater Philadelphia.
Through Solarize Greater Philadelphia, participating installers will offer job opportunities and workforce training within the very same LMI communities where the solar systems are being leased.
“Pennsylvania BRIGHT makes it possible for LMI homeowners to reduce costs using clean, affordable solar energy,” said Maryrose Myrtetus, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Green Capital Corp. “Even though federal tax credits for residential installations expire later this year, solar leases are providing clear benefits. Pennsylvania BRIGHT removes upfront costs and credit barriers. By partnering with Solarize Greater Philadelphia, we’re making it possible for homeowners of all income levels to access savings and stability.”
Pennsylvania BRIGHT has already helped over 60 households lower energy bills and build resilience across the Commonwealth.
Trevor Southworth, 33, of Millvale, Allegheny County had panels installed earlier this year.
“It’s an investment in my house and my neighborhood,” he said, noting that the process has been transparent, affordable, and easy.
Mark Gorman, 74, of Pittsburgh, saw his solar system go live this spring.
“We have three grandchildren, and we want to send a message that there is another way,” he said. “Programs like Pennsylvania BRIGHT help bridge the gap so everyone can be part of the clean energy transition.”
Check Your Eligibility
Interested residents can check their eligibility and get started by filling out an inquiry form.
Capital Good Fund is a nonprofit, U.S. Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) with a mission to create pathways out of poverty and advance a green economy.
[Posted: December 16, 2025] PA Environment Digest
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