The PA Sunshine Solar Program is performing better than expected and has helped double Pennsylvania's solar generating capacity in under six months, according to Gov. Edward G. Rendell, D-Pa., and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The program also recently reached its first incentive milestone for small-business rebates: the deployment of 5 MW of solar.
The $100 million PA Sunshine Solar Program reimburses homeowners and small-business owners up to 35% of the purchase and installation costs of solar energy technology. In combination with federal tax credits, consumers can reduce system costs by 45%.
Since the program opened on May 18, the commonwealth has committed $12.5 million to 625 projects by residential and small business consumers. The projects represent at least $50 million in private investment, the DEP says.
More than 300 installers have been certified to install solar systems under the program, and the DEP continues to receive and accept applications.
SOURCE: Pennsylvania Office of the Governor
