PHILADELPHIA (April 22, 2024) - The Biden-Harris Administration, in celebration of Earth Day, has announced a significant allocation of funds to the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency revealed that over $156 million will be granted to develop solar programs aimed at benefiting low-income and disadvantaged communities in Pennsylvania.
The grant falls under the Solar for All initiative, part of the $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund established under President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act. The goal is to reduce energy costs, create jobs, promote environmental justice, and address climate change.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan highlighted the administration's commitment to inclusivity, stating, "Today we’re delivering on President Biden’s promise that no community is left behind by investing $7 billion in solar energy projects for over 900,000 households in low-income and disadvantaged communities."
Echoing this sentiment, EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz emphasized, "The health and economic benefits of renewable energy should be accessible to every community."
The Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority, in partnership with the Philadelphia Green Capital Corporation, will utilize the awarded funds to provide residential solar technology and upgrades to homes in underserved areas across the state.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Biden-Harris Administration to promote clean energy and environmental equity. The program aligns with the Justice40 Initiative, aiming to ensure that federal investments benefit disadvantaged communities and contribute to a sustainable future.
A total of approximately $5.5 billion has been distributed to 49 state-level recipients, with additional funding allocated for Tribes and multistate projects. The Solar for All program is expected to enable over 900,000 households to benefit from solar energy, resulting in significant cost savings and reduced carbon emissions.
The selected applicants have committed to advancing key objectives, including reducing pollution, supporting low-income communities, and catalyzing financing for solar energy projects. The initiative also aims to create job opportunities and foster workforce development in the clean energy sector.
The EPA anticipates finalizing awards in the summer of 2024, with projects set to commence later in the year. Informational webinars will be held to engage the public and ensure transparency throughout the implementation process.
The Biden-Harris Administration's investment in solar energy programs underscores its dedication to environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, and social equity.
