Pennsylvania Solar Energy Rebates and Incentives
Just like in some other states, Pennsylvania solar energy rebates and incentives are largely made up of credits – in this case called SAECs – that system owners are rewarded with for every 1,000 kW-hours of electricity their systems produce. SAECs are purchased by utility companies as a way for them to meet state-mandated renewable energy goals, and system owners are financially rewarded for their decision to go solar.
Pennsylvania Government Solar Energy Rebates + Incentives
The Sunshine Program offers a cash incentive of $0.75 per installed Watt up to $7,500 or 35% of the installed system cost.
Currently this program is in the “waiting list” phase, meaning system owners can continue to apply for the incentive, but it is not guaranteed. Applicants must have their system installed within one year of applying, even if it means uncertainty about receiving the rebate.
Pennsylvania Utility Solar Energy Rebates + Incentives
Instead of the Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) generated in other states in the Northeast, Pennsylvania solar electric systems generate SAECs, which work the same way. One SAEC is generated for each megawatt-hour of electricity a solar PV system produces, and Pennsylvania electric utilities must purchase these SAECs from system owners (at the natural market price) to meet thresholds set by Pennsylvania’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard. In this way, SAECs act as a performance-based incentive.
Other Pennsylvania Solar Energy Rebates + Incentives
1- and 2-family residential units having a solar PV system installed are eligible for a combined building and electrical work permit that reduces the time, paperwork and cost required for separate building and electrical work permits.
In addition, the cost of the permit has been reduced from $25 per $1,000 of labor and materials to just $25 per $1,000 of labor.
