Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro unveiled a groundbreaking renewable energy initiative during his visit to York on Monday.
Dubbed the Pennsylvania Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy, or PA PULSE, the initiative aims to transition the Commonwealth to sourcing 50% of its energy from solar arrays by 2025. Spread across six counties, including York County, PA PULSE encompasses 10 solar arrays.
In his address, Governor Shapiro emphasized the collaborative effort behind the initiative, highlighting the involvement of the private sector, public sector, labor, and businesses. He remarked, “Today’s announcement is another example, during the time of our administration, of what is possible in Pennsylvania when the private sector, the public sector, labor and business all come together to invest in innovation, to invest in clean energy and to invest in a brighter future for the Commonwealth.”
According to the Shapiro administration, PA PULSE is projected to significantly reduce Pennsylvania’s carbon footprint by more than 157,800 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, equivalent to the emissions of 34,000 gas-powered cars. Additionally, the initiative is expected to generate 200 new jobs.
PA PULSE builds upon Governor Shapiro’s broader energy plan, which aims to lower energy costs for consumers, create over 14,500 jobs, and bolster Pennsylvania’s energy independence.
As part of his energy agenda, Governor Shapiro has proposed two key initiatives:
Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Act (PACER): This initiative seeks to establish a Pennsylvania-specific cap-and-invest program, empowering the state to set its own cap on energy sector carbon pollution. Notably, 70% of the revenue generated under PACER would be directed back to Pennsylvania residents as a rebate on their electric bills, offering substantial long-term relief on energy costs.
Pennsylvania Reliable Energy Sustainability Standard (PRESS): Designed to attract federal investments and ensure long-term utility cost stability, PRESS focuses on building a reliable and affordable fleet of power sources to meet Pennsylvania’s energy needs for the foreseeable future.