SolarBank's First Community Solar Project In PA: A 13.8-Megawatt Project In Lancaster County Contingent On PA Passing Community Solar Legislation

On October 8, SolarBank Corporation announced plans to develop a 13.8 MW DC ground-mount solar power project known as the Grandview project on a site located in Lancaster County. The Project is part of a three-project plan totalling 24.8 MW DC.

The proposed community solar project – which would be one of the first of its kind in Pennsylvania – would provide residents, including renters and those without suitable rooftops, with the opportunity to benefit from solar energy without the need to install panels on their own properties.

About 1,630 homes are expected to be powered by this project.

On March 26, 2024, the Pennsylvania House passed House Bill 1842, a bill enabling the potential development of community solar projects in the state, paving the way for companies like SolarBank to expand into the region and provide clean energy to residents of various income levels. 

The development of the Project as a community solar project will be subject to the final approval of House Bill 1842 by the State government of Pennsylvania.

The bill is currently under review by the Senate.

“Community solar is a great way for everyone to access renewable energy,” said SolarBank CEO, Dr. Richard Lu. “Community members can go solar and contribute to building a sustainable future without having to install their own panels. We are excited for the next steps in developing the Grandview project, which would be a significant milestone in SolarBank’s community solar portfolio, in addition to being a part of Pennsylvania’s historic move toward a cleaner future.”

The Company has secured a lease over the Project site and will continue to work to complete the next steps in permitting, interconnection and securing the necessary financing for construction of the Project. 

The clean energy generated by a community solar project feeds directly into the local electricity grid. 

Depending on the size and number of panels the project has, dozens or even hundreds of renters and homeowners can earn credits on their electric bill and save money from the electricity that is generated by the project. 

SolarBank’s strategic focus on community solar aligns with its goal of powering thousands of homes with clean and affordable energy.

Click Here for the complete announcement.

Resource Link:

-- Vote Solar, Solar United Neighbors, 60+ Groups Urge PA Senate To Unlock Community Solar Energy Benefits By Taking Action On Bipartisan Legislation  [PaEN] 

[Posted: October 8, 2024]  PA Environment Digest