Bill > HB272

This bill establishes the Municipal and Emergency Responder Solar Grant Program, which will be administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The program will provide competitive grants to eligible applicants, including political subdivisions like counties, cities, and townships, as well as local authorities and emergency service facilities like fire, police, and ambulance departments. Grants can cover up to 50% of project costs related to solar energy installations, such as equipment purchase, installation, permitting, energy storage, and utility interconnection. The DEP will develop guidelines, establish an application process, provide technical assistance, and help applicants access federal Inflation Reduction Act funding. Applicants must submit a solar facility site assessment and ensure contractors meet specific requirements, including maintaining proper licenses, insurance, and safety training. The program prioritizes grants for applicants near recently closed coal-powered plants and those seeking to maximize solar energy production. Grant recipients must retain ownership of solar equipment, which must be at least 75% produced in the United States, and can use energy cost savings to supplement facility improvements like environmental remediation, air quality upgrades, and emergency repairs. The department may conduct random audits to ensure proper use of grant funds, and the program aims to support municipal and emergency service solar projects across Pennsylvania.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=272