With energy demand and prices soaring, one solution is to support residents who seek to generate their own electricity.
 
            Traditionally, the benefits of solar energy have remained exclusive to ratepayers with access to rooftop solar systems or ground-based arrays. Plug-in solar is changing that. Plug-in solar photovoltaic systems can be installed on balconies, patios and terraces, making it possible for apartment dwellers to enjoy the benefits of renewable energy. However, requirements to obtain an interconnection agreement and the imposition of related fees stand in the way of widespread deployment.
 
 I plan to introduce legislation that eliminates the requirement to obtain an interconnection agreement and prohibits electric distribution companies from imposing fees on systems that have obtained national safety certifications. Notably, these systems would be ineligible to participate in Pennsylvania’s net metering program.
 
As national safety certifiers work to develop guidance for these systems, this bill takes a proactive approach to expanding opportunities for plug-in solar across the Commonwealth. Eliminating costly and time-consuming barriers to the adoption of plug-in solar expands a consumer’s choice to adopt an emissions free, cost-reducing energy solution.
 
Too often legislation fails to keep up with the pace of technological advancement. I hope you’ll join me in co-sponsoring this proactive legislation that will help residents across the Commonwealth offset rising energy costs..