PHILADELPHIA – May 11, 2026  – Today, the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) and Philadelphia Green Capital Corp. (PGCC), joined by City administration and state leaders, members of City Council, and former Council President Darrell Clarke, announced the 10-year results of the Philadelphia Energy Campaign, highlighting $2 billion of economic impact, more than 11,000 jobs created, and over $1.4 billion in energy savings for the City of Philadelphia and its residents.

Launched in 2016 in partnership with City of Philadelphia administration leadership and Philadelphia City Council, the Philadelphia Energy Campaign set ambitious goals: $1 billion of clean energy investments and up to 10,000 jobs by 2026, benefiting neighborhoods across Philadelphia. Results of a new study show the Campaign catalyzed $1.3 billion of economic investment, surpassing the investment target by 30 percent while exceeding the jobs goal.

The 10-year economic impact report produced by Econsult Solutions, Inc. (ESI) demonstrates how strategic investment in clean energy drives economic growth, reducing costs for individuals, local institutions, and municipal government, while delivering meaningful benefits for residents, businesses, and taxpayers.

“Our city’s clean energy is delivering cost savings – and jobs – to the benefit of Philadelphia residents and local businesses, which are top priorities for our administration,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Our partnership with the Philadelphia Energy Authority has not only helped us get closer to a Safer, Cleaner and Greener city, but the positive economic indicators are off the charts. I am thankful to the many City departments that have worked collaboratively with PEA to help generate these impressive results.” 

“The Philadelphia Energy Campaign demonstrates that clean energy is an economic development strategy, a cost-saving strategy, and a public health strategy all in one,” said Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson. “Results of the Philadelphia Energy Campaign signal what’s possible through collaboration, as clean energy touches every part of how our city functions. And by investing in workforce development, we are ensuring our residents can access these emerging opportunities, whether through jobs in the growing clean energy economy or related construction trades.”

With $14.7 million in City allocations over 10 years, PEA helped unlock over $1.3 billion in total investment – an extraordinary return of approximately 90 times the public dollars committed, underscoring PEA’s role as a responsible steward of public resources.

“The Philadelphia Energy Campaign shows what is possible when public investment is used to drive economic growth, create jobs and lower costs for residents,” said State Representative Jordan A. Harris, Majority Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. “This work has helped generate more than $1.3 billion in investment, create more than 11,000 jobs and deliver real energy savings for Philadelphia. Just as importantly, the next phase will modernize public buildings, including health centers and homeless services facilities, so the people who live, work and receive services in these spaces are in safer, healthier and more comfortable environments.”

“Over the last ten years, the Philadelphia Energy Campaign exceeded every goal we set, and we redefined what’s possible when vision meets action,” said Emily Schapira, CEO of the Philadelphia Energy Authority. “With collaboration across government, schools, utilities, service organizations and industry, this initiative demonstrates clean energy crosses all sectors and all parts of our lives. Clean energy is not just one solution; it’s everything: jobs for people, revenue for the city, and healthier, more resilient communities.”

The Campaign generated significant new revenue for the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Over ten years, clean energy investments helped produce more than $25 million in tax revenue for Philadelphia and over $50 million statewide, funding that supports essential services, infrastructure, and community priorities.

Overall economic activity generated by the Philadelphia Energy Campaign includes:

• $2 billion in economic output in Philadelphia, supporting 11,415 jobs, $698.1 million in employee compensation, and $25.3 million in tax revenue; 
• $2.4 billion statewide, supporting 12,855 full-time equivalent jobs and $801.4 million in employee compensation as well as $50.1 million in tax revenue; and 
• A resulting $73.6 million in combined tax revenue for the City and Commonwealth.

PEA programs modernize the region’s energy infrastructure. Clean energy projects have delivered over $1.4 billion in savings, while helping to cut municipal carbon emissions by nearly half, improving health and safety for those living and working across Philadelphia. The result is a ripple effect: savings generated by these programs are reinvested into local economies, the jobs created help to sustain our communities, and the improved infrastructure enhances public safety, health, and quality of life. 

Continuing this momentum, PEA and the City of Philadelphia are next retrofitting 14 major municipal buildings — among the City’s largest energy users — including City Hall, the Municipal Services Building, One Parkway Building, and the Criminal Justice Center. The project involves collaboration between PEA, the Office of Sustainability, Office of Homeless Services, Department of Public Health, and Department of Public Property. 

This Quadplex + Community Health project will deploy energy efficiency improvements throughout the City’s four large downtown buildings, seven health centers, and three homeless services centers, resulting in greater comfort and quality of care for residents, and long-lasting, more affordable, healthy City infrastructure.

“Through the Philadelphia Energy Campaign, the City is investing in clean energy and advancing ambitious energy goals that deliver a trifecta of environmental, quality of life, and economic improvements,” said Elizabeth Lankenau, Director of the Philadelphia Office of Sustainability. “The Quadplex + Community Health project is an example of an ongoing initiative that goes beyond helping the City reach its goal of carbon neutrality; it is saving energy and lowering costs, while improving the quality of facilities where residents access critical services.”

Read the full report to learn more about the transformative Philadelphia Energy Campaign and what it means for Philadelphia’s future.

The post Turning $14.7 Million into $1.3 Billion: Philadelphia Energy Campaign Surpasses Goals, Collaborates with City to Grow Local Clean Energy Economy first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.

The Philadelphia Energy Authority, Nuveen Green Capital, and Brandywine Realty Trust have reached agreement on $87.3 million in Philadelphia Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financing for 3151 Market Street in Schuylkill Yards, the latest addition to West Philadelphia’s life sciences and mixed-use development hub. The transaction represents the largest C-PACE financing in Pennsylvania’s history and among the largest for a publicly traded real estate investment trust (REIT). This milestone demonstrates C-PACE’s flexibility in working with diverse financing partners and its ability to provide innovative capital structures for various projects.

C-PACE financing positions Brandywine Realty Trust to continue executing its vision for Schuylkill Yards, a 14-acre mixed-use, transit-oriented development located in University City. 3151 Market is a recently completed 494,530-square-foot, 12-story lab and office building designed for flexibility, sustainability and high-performance use. Refinancing the project enables Brandywine to preserve conventional debt capacity at this LEED® Platinum building (certification pending).

“This record-setting $87-million deal is noteworthy not only for its size. As the first C-PACE financing for a real estate investment trust, this project affirms that Philadelphia’s C-PACE program is resonating with institutional owners as well as private investors,” said Lisa Shulock, PEA Director of Commercial Programs. “Retroactive financing for 3151 Market reflects growing confidence in C-PACE as a flexible capital solution and signals its expanding role in today’s commercial real estate market.”

Completed and ready for occupancy, 3151 Market is designed with sustainability at its core, featuring state-of-the-art lab and office space, premier amenities, and a prime location at the center of Philadelphia’s flourishing life science and tech ecosystem.

“C-PACE provided the right financing at the right time for 3151 Market,” said Tom Wirth, Chief Financial Officer, Brandywine Realty Trust. “Working with the Philadelphia Energy Authority affirmed our continued investment in West Philadelphia at Schuylkill Yards, and we’re pleased with how this partnership with Nuveen can help our future tenants make the most of this LEED Platinum-certified building.”

“The Philadelphia C-PACE financing for Schuylkill Yards supports the City’s sustainability and economic development goals,” said Karen Fegely, Acting Commerce Director, City of Philadelphia. “This investment affirms our shared commitment to growing Philadelphia as a world-class hub for growth industries, especially our life sciences and biotechnology sectors.”

“We were thrilled to partner with Brandywine Realty Trust on this innovative property, which will continue building momentum in this Philadelphia neighborhood while catalyzing life sciences development in the city,” said Mike Doty, Senior Director of Originations at Nuveen Green Capital. “By utilizing C-PACE to recapitalize the project post-completion, the sponsor will preserve liquidity while supporting sustainable building development.”

C-PACE-financed sustainability measures include upgrades to the building envelope, lighting and HVAC systems, and water conservation measures.

Managed by PEA, the Philadelphia C-PACE program provides commercial, industrial and multifamily property owners and developers access to long-term, fixed-rate financing for energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, indoor air quality, and resiliency projects. 

Interested in learning more about C-PACE? Contact us at cpace@philaenergy.org

The post Nuveen Green Capital and Brandywine Realty Trust Close Largest C-PACE Financing in Pennsylvania History first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.

Once complete, Abes Run Solar will supply an estimated 5 percent of municipal electricity use – equivalent to six times City Hall’s annual electricity use. The PPA will supply the city with 20 years of electricity at a fixed rate.

The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) holds the contract with Pittsburgh-based Oriden Power, a Mitsubishi Power Americas Company. The project locks in savings while making progress toward the goal of powering City operations with 100-percent clean and renewable electricity.

Power generated from the 92-acre project site in Clearfield County, Pa. will feed into the regional grid, offsetting higher-cost energy supplies and qualifying the City of Philadelphia to receive renewable energy credits through Pennsylvania’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard.

“My administration is committed to progress that delivers cleaner air, lower costs, and a more resilient future. With projects like Abes Run Solar, the City of Philadelphia is leading by example,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Abes Run Solar is proof that large cities like Philadelphia can achieve our sustainability and fiscal responsibility objectives. We get affordable, zero-carbon electricity for decades to come. We create good-paying jobs. And we make our city cleaner, greener, and more sustainable.”

The project will be the City’s second utility-scale PPA, building upon the success of Adams Solar, a 70-MW facility that finished construction in 2024. Added together, the projects supply renewable energy that accounts for roughly 30 percent of municipal electricity needs.

Abes Run Solar is part of a multi-year sustainable operations strategy, laid out in the Municipal Energy Master Plan. By 2030, the City plans to achieve a 50-percent reduction in built environment carbon emissions and 20-percent reduction in building-sector energy use – on top of the goal of sourcing 100-percent renewable electricity – all while reducing or maintaining City operating costs.

“This project meets all our goals: delivering 20-Megawatts of clean and green energy for the city, bringing us closer to our goal of 100 percent zero-carbon renewable electricity, while providing a fixed-rate price hedge for 20 years,” said Elizabeth Lankenau, Director of the Philadelphia Office of Sustainability. “The agreed-upon price guarantee locks in affordable, zero-carbon electricity supplies and, with it, much-needed budget stability.”

The Office of Sustainability modeled future energy prices, reaching agreement on a pricing structure that delivers competitive electricity supplies at a time when growing energy consumption is forecast to drive up prices and carbon emissions across the region.

“As utility prices continue to rise, the City’s leadership on clean energy is common sense,” said Emily Schapira, CEO of the Philadelphia Energy Authority. “Solar power provides long-term financial and environmental benefits for Philadelphia. We continue to support the City to leverage all tools at our disposal to manage costs, plan for the future, and protect Philadelphians.”

“The City of Philadelphia’s investment in solar shows great leadership and ensures its energy generation needs are met sustainably and affordably. Oriden values the City of Philadelphia’s collaboration and we will execute with a focus on exceptional quality,” said Michael Berlin, COO of Oriden. “As a Pennsylvania-based developer, we take pride in our ability to leverage local partnerships within the Commonwealth. Supplying my childhood hometown with clean, affordable electricity is an added bonus.”

About the City’s Office of Sustainability
The Office of Sustainability (OOS) works with partners around the city to improve quality of life in all Philadelphia neighborhoods, through addressing environmental justice, reducing the city’s carbon emissions, and preparing Philadelphia for a hotter and wetter future. The Division of Energy & Climate Solutions, housed within OOS, is responsible for managing the municipal energy portfolio and its contribution towards carbon reductions. For more information, please visit phila.gov/sustainability.

About the Philadelphia Energy Authority
The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) is an independent municipal authority building a robust, equitable clean energy economy for Philadelphia. PEA runs the Philadelphia Energy Campaign, a $1 billion, 10-year investment in energy efficiency and clean energy projects to create 10,000 jobs. PEA has supported over $1 billion in projects and created over 8,400 jobs so far. Learn more at www.philaenergy.org.###

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Contact:
Ben Block
Senior Manager Communications
Philadelphia Energy Authority
(215)688-5134
Media@philaenergy.org

PHILADELPHIA – Today, City officials and the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) celebrated the achievements of the Philly Streetlight Improvement Project (PSIP) and shared trick-or-treating safety information at the John M. Patterson School in Southwest Philadelphia. 

PSIP is a collaboration between the City of Philadelphia’s Streets Department and Office of Sustainability, partnering with PEA. Working together, the team extensively researched, tested, and planned every detail of this comprehensive infrastructure upgrade. Since construction started in 2023, the project has upgraded 130,000 streetlights with newer, energy efficient, brighter, longer-lasting LEDs – in two years and on budget. 

“I am thrilled to announce that Philadelphia has achieved our goal of replacing every neighborhood streetlight,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This was a bold project, and it clearly demonstrates how cost-effective, citywide infrastructure investments improve quality of life, making the city safer for all.” 

PSIP is among the first large-scale municipal streetlight replacement projects to track and demonstrate measurable safety benefits. A study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania Crime and Justice Policy Lab showed streetlight upgrades in areas identified in the 57+ Block Initiative, or corridors in the top 10 percent of nighttime crime, saw a 21-percent reduction in outdoor nighttime gun violence. Additionally, there was a 16-percent decrease in property crimes, and 10-percent drop in total outdoor street crimes. 

“Across the city, residents are noticing fewer outages and brighter lights, and the benefits of The Philly Streetlight Improvement Project can be seen anywhere you go,” said Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson (Second District). “Neighborhoods affected by gun violence were among the first to receive new streetlights. Brighter streetlighting citywide has improved perceptions of safety and neighborhood vitality, demonstrating the City of Philadelphia and City Council’s commitment to improving quality of life in every neighborhood.”  

PSIP aligns with the City’s Vision Zero goal of eliminating fatal traffic crashes. Severe crashes occur more often at night when there is reduced visibility. Improved roadway lighting helps everyone look out for one another, whether they are walking, biking, taking transit, or driving. 

“I am thrilled to be here with the team that made this citywide infrastructure upgrade possible. This is how interagency collaboration improves quality of life, not just for one neighborhood, but every neighborhood across Philadelphia.” said Kristin Del Rossi, Commissioner, Philadelphia Department of Streets. “Now it is the Streets Department’s responsibility to maintain this new infrastructure. Our Streetlighting Division staff will ensure our city continues to benefit from this investment for years to come.” 

The Office of Clean and Green and the Future Track Program were instrumental in clearing narrow alleyways in neighborhoods across Philadelphia. This work allowed for the repair and upgrade of previously hard to reach streetlights. Cleaner and better-lit back alleys and roadways now help deter crime and illegal dumping. 

“The work of the Philly Streetlight Improvement Project complements the city’s safer, cleaner, and greener initiatives. While the ongoing work to keep the city cleaner and greener continues – thanks to our LED streetlights – our streets are brighter,” said Carlton Williams, Director, Office of Clean and Green. “Well-lit streets and alleys are a key component to creating safer communities.”  

The project was financed with a $91.2 million bond and will pay for itself through $8 million in annual energy and operational savings. The Guaranteed Energy Savings Act project will reduce municipal carbon emissions by nearly 10 percent, more than any other energy efficiency project, making it a key strategy in the City’s Municipal Energy Master Plan. 

“This Halloween, brighter streetlights mean safer streets for every trick-or-treater in Philadelphia,” said Emily Schapira, PEA President and CEO. “At a time when rising energy prices affect us all, LED streetlights will help protect taxpayers for decades to come, slashing the City’s electricity use in half.” 

“People often think sustainability initiatives create trade-offs between economic and environmental benefits. Our new streetlights prove we can create economic opportunity for residents and save taxpayer dollars, while also improving safety, quality of life, and energy efficiency in our city,” said Liz Lankenau, Director, Office of Sustainability. “We look forward to pursuing more ambitious energy projects that further our climate goals while creating tangible benefits for residents.” 

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The post City of Philadelphia and PEA Celebrate Completion of Citywide Streetlighting Upgrade first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.

CONTACT:
Ben Block
Senior Manager, Communications
Philadelphia Energy Authority
(215)688-5134
Media@philaenergy.org

During the seventh annual Philadelphia Solar Week, City leaders join local solar energy installers to showcase the benefits of solar energy, raising awareness about incentives and financing tools available to the region’s homeowners, nonprofits, and commercial businesses.

Philadelphia, Pa., August 18, 2025 — The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA), Philadelphia Green Capital Corp. (PGCC), and City leadership announce Philadelphia’s progress expanding access to affordable, clean solar energy. Philadelphia is one of the country’s most energy-burdened cities and has become a national leader in supporting solar access for all to address long-term utility affordability.

Philadelphia City Council recognizes the third week of August as Solar Week. Events this week celebrate the success of the local solar energy market and raise awareness of incentives and financing tools accelerating Philadelphians’ transition to affordable clean energy. See the full calendar of events at SolarWeekPHL.org.

“I am proud of Philadelphia’s leadership, ensuring that affordable, clean solar energy is within reach no matter your income level,” said Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson. “City Council and Philadelphia Energy Authority set out to support a homegrown solar energy market for all Philadelphians. We now have thousands of rooftop solar arrays across the city, including many within our most vulnerable neighborhoods, all while creating hundreds of family-sustaining jobs.”

PEA launched Solarize Philly in 2017 to assist homeowners and businesses with navigating the rooftop solar installation process. The consumer protection and technical assistance program has since grown to become the largest solar initiative in the country. More than 4,000 households and businesses across Philadelphia have put solar on their roofs, connecting more than 23 megawatts of solar energy to the local grid.

Across the country, rooftop solar is becoming more available to everyone. Adoption among low-income households represents 26 percent of the nationwide market, according to a Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory survey. Philadelphia’s progress far exceeds national trends – among households that have installed solar energy, nearly 60 percent have incomes at or below 80 percent of area median income.

This progress is due in large part to the Solarize program’s expanded offerings. Since 2021, installer PosiGen has offered a solar leasing option, enabling homeowners of all income levels to go solar with no upfront cost and no minimum credit score. More than 2,000 Solarize contracts have since been signed by Philadelphia homeowners who reside in the city’s low- and moderate-income census tracts.

“The cost of our utilities continues to rise. More than a quarter of Philadelphia’s low-income households are severely energy burdened,” said PEA President and CEO Emily Schapira. “Rooftop solar provides a pathway toward long-term housing affordability, and is a critical tool for keeping Philadelphians in their homes. We are so proud of the progress we’ve made so far and will continue to support our neighborhoods to lead the way toward a more healthy, affordable future.” 

Recently enacted changes to federal clean energy policies pose obstacles to an otherwise thriving solar energy market. July’s federal budget reconciliation bill accelerated the phaseout of a 30-percent clean energy tax credit. Households must now have solar panels installed by the end of 2025 to qualify to receive the tax credit directly. Customers who lease solar will still be able to receive indirect benefits through a reduced lease cost. Commercial, nonprofit and municipal projects must begin construction by July 2026 to be eligible for the full 30-percent credit.

Regardless of changes to federal policies, innovative financing tools can keep the cost of solar energy within reach. Residential project financing will remain available through solar leases or power purchase agreements. Such financing tools can be combined with existing federal incentives and utility rebates, making it possible to install solar with no upfront cost. PECO launched a $500 solar rebate this year, available regardless of whether the homeowner purchases or leases their system.

PEA and its green bank affiliate, PGCC, launched Solarize Greater Philadelphia earlier this year, broadening Solarize Philly across the region. The expanded initiative brings together multiple programs that assist property owners in completing their transition to solar energy.

“Success of the Solarize model is now being replicated and expanded across the region,” said Tabeen Hossain, PEA Senior Manager, Solar Programs. “Solarize Greater Philadelphia offers consumer protections and technical assistance for homeowners, businesses, and non-profit organizations across Southeastern Pennsylvania. We encourage anyone interested to contact us and see whether solar makes sense for them.”

Join one of the solar energy tours taking place during Philadelphia Solar Week to learn how homeowners, businesses, and non-profit organizations are transitioning to solar energy. Learn more at SolarWeekPHL.org. 

About Philadelphia Energy Authority

The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) is an independent municipal authority focused on building a robust, equitable clean energy economy for Philadelphia. Launched in 2016, PEA leads the Philadelphia Energy Campaign, a $1 billion, 10-year investment in energy efficiency and clean energy projects to create 10,000 jobs. To date, PEA has supported over $1 billion in projects and created more than 8,400 jobs. Learn more at PhilaEnergy.org and on LinkedIn.

About Philadelphia Green Capital Corp.

The Philadelphia Green Capital Corp (PGCC) is the green bank affiliate of the Philadelphia Energy Authority. PGCC, a 501(c)3, works to scale and amplify PEA’s work, support the Philadelphia Energy Campaign, and bring new funding and financial products to the region’s clean energy economy that support equitable access to green capital. Learn more at PhillyGreenCapital.org and on LinkedIn.

About Philadelphia City Council

Philadelphia City Council is the legislative arm of Philadelphia municipal government. In 2010, City Council adopted a resolution to permanently recognize the third week of August as Philadelphia Solar Week. Keep up with Council on PHLouncil.com, and on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

The post Seventh Annual Philadelphia Solar Week Celebrates Region’s Solar Energy Progress, Launches Solarize Greater Philadelphia first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.

The Philadelphia Energy Campaign brings together private investments as well as federal, state, city and utility funds to complete major energy-saving programs and projects. Many of the campaign’s initiatives otherwise lack necessary technical or financial assistance to move forward or to ever get started. PEA and PGCC provide technical support and program implementation services for municipal governments, school districts, affordable housing developers, small business, and commercial and industrial sectors.

Accomplishments over the past year include:

• Flipping the switch on Adams Solar, a 70-megawatt solar array financed through a power purchase agreement with Energix Renewables – locking in long-term, low-cost clean power for 25 percent of the city’s electricity needs.


• Advancing the Philly Streetlight Improvement Project, made possible through the City’s first Sustainability Bond, so far resulting in the conversion of more than 100,000 streetlights to LEDs – saving $8 million in annual electricity costs.


• Managing the City’s solar group buying program and clean energy financing tools. Solarize Greater Philadelphia connects property owners to vetted installers and provides important consumer protections to increase access to solar through ownership and lease models. Across the city, more than 3,900 Philadelphia property owners have installed solar through the program since its launch, adding more than 22 megawatts (MW) of clean power to the grid.


• Scaling Built to Last, a program coordinating multiple city and utility services to provide comprehensive home repairs and energy affordability measures. In total, 250 homeowners have had their homes restored through the program. An additional 350 projects are underway. 

“Built to Last construction gained momentum in 2024, continually improving collaboration with community partners and service providers. The program clearly demonstrates housing preservation and electrification goals can be achieved in tandem,” said PEA Vice President of Programs Alon Abramson. “Moving forward, our goal is to grow the program to serve 1,000 homes a year. Built to Last addresses home repairs holistically and with staying power, creating a path forward for homeowners to retain generational wealth.” 

PEA collaborates closely with PGCC, connecting communities to capital markets to make solar, energy efficiency, and electrification more accessible and affordable. PGCC secures financing to support Built to Last, Solarize Greater Philadelphia, and other PEA initiatives.

“As a green bank, we work to crowd in capital and deliver clean energy solutions where they’re needed most,” said Maryrose Myrtetus, Executive Director of PGCC. “Even in this complex and shifting landscape, we are focused on scaling impact and lowering energy costs for low-income communities across Pennsylvania.”

Commercial Property-Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) combines PEA’s program administration services with private financing to catalyze clean energy investments. C-PACE provides long-term financing for owners to borrow up to 100 percent of project costs for major upgrades to their commercial, industrial or multifamily properties, paid on their property tax bill. C-PACE projects outpace energy code, using between 20- and 45-percent less energy than a code-built building. Noteworthy projects that closed or came into service in 2024 include:

• 5th and Spring Garden – a new 329-unit multifamily property with ~14,000 SF of retail, making it the largest C-PACE financed project in Pennsylvania
• The Battery – a 173-unit apartment building within a converted 500,000-square foot former PECO power plant
• Rhoads Industries’ Building 57 – a state-of-the-art industrial fabrication plant assembling advanced equipment for the U.S. Navy’s submarine program
• 1440 N. Front Street – a 114-unit multifamily building with ground-level retail

“5th and Spring Garden could not have been financed without C-PACE,” said Tim Downey, Founder and CEO of Southern Land Company, the property’s owner. “Energy efficiency is central to the design and functionality of this project. It truly matters to us that C-PACE financing is available to support our objective of designing and building better for the long-term.” 

PEA’s novel workforce development programs provide training and wrap-around services for participants to gain career-building qualifications in the emerging clean energy economy. Programs such as the Green Retrofit Immersive Training (GRIT), Bright Solar Futures high school (BSF), and Bright Solar Futures Opportunity Youth (BSF OppY) establish career pipelines for jobs in home weatherization, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.

“I want to be able to provide good, reliable, lasting homes for low-income families and families in general,” said Amanda Rodriguez, a GRIT alumni. “This program gave me the opportunity to accomplish all of my goals.”

PEA and PGCC are preparing for the next phase of the Philadelphia Energy Campaign. On-going programs and planned initiatives will continue laying the groundwork for Philadelphia to attract economic development, advance equitable access to affordable energy, and connect marginalized populations to the benefits of the growing clean energy economy.

The post Philadelphia Energy Campaign Achieves $1 Billion in Clean Energy Investments first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.

The announcement includes $1.2 million for the School District of Philadelphia (SDP). Community College of Philadelphia and Universal Audenried Charter High School in South Philadelphia will each receive $500,000. Once completed, these solar projects will reduce overhead costs, freeing up much-needed resources that can be invested in student enrichment and educational facilities.

PEA partnered with the Pennsylvania Solar Center to provide technical feasibility assistance for the SDP grant application. The funding is anticipated to cover up to 50 percent of construction costs for solar energy projects at four schools: Andrew Hamilton School, Murrell Dobbins Career & Technical Education High School, Northeast Community Propel Academy, and W. B. Saul High School. Clean energy rebates and incentives will further discount project installation costs. 

“Solar energy is an already sound investment. When combined with the Solar for PA School Grants Program, solar provides clear short- and long-term benefits,” said Grace Hancock, PEA Senior Manager of Policy and Strategic Partnerships. “This grant can unlock tax credits and rebates, significantly reducing the cost of going solar. Plus, on-site solar advances GreenFutures sustainability goals and provides learning opportunities for students interested in clean energy career paths.”

The SDP solar energy installations are estimated to generate more than 50 percent of the schools’ electricity needs, saving millions of dollars over the lifetime of the equipment. With the Solar for Schools grant, the installations are projected to pay for themselves in less than eight years.

“Solar energy is a win-win for the School District of Philadelphia. It provides the opportunity to lower costs and reduce our environmental footprint,” said SDP Superintendent Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D. “Every dollar our schools can save through lower electricity costs is a dollar we can invest to continue accelerating student achievement.”

DCED received 88 applications during the first year of the Solar for PA Schools Grant Program. The funding requests exceeded more than three times the program’s allocation, reflecting a high level of interest in the program across the Commonwealth.

“I am so happy for each of these schools and excited to see names from nearly every corner of the state,” said Pennsylvania Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler (184th District). “I’ve heard from rural schools who plan to include their solar panels in agricultural education and from city schools that are thinking strategically about rooftop solar with limited space. I have no doubt that the recipients will benefit from the program’s flexibility to meet their school’s needs and to make the most of their strengths.” 

Existing SDP solar energy installations include rooftop arrays at Albert M. Greenfield Elementary School, made possible by private donations, and at S. Solis- Cohen Elementary School.

The post Solar for Schools Awards $2.2 Million for Philadelphia Schools first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.

The initiative brings together multiple programs that assist Greater Philadelphia property owners in reaping the benefits of solar energy. 

PEA launched Solarize Philly in 2017 as a group buying program to help homeowners and businesses navigate the process of installing rooftop solar. More than 3,800 participants have installed solar through ownership or lease models, adding more than 22 megawatts (MW) to the grid.

Solarize Greater Philadelphia will continue these services, connecting Philadelphia homeowners to vetted installers while providing important consumer protections. Learn more about residential services

In addition, Solarize Greater Philadelphia offers support for the region’s businesses, municipalities, schools, and nonprofits. Through a partnership with the Pennsylvania Solar Center’s G.E.T. Solar initiative, the program provides free technical assistance and financial guidance to property owners in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. Learn more about non-residential services

The G.E.T. Solar initiative assists participants in layering available federal, state and utility incentive programs, lowering the upfront cost of going solar. The program offers procurement support, collecting proposals from vetted solar developers through an unbiased, competitive bidding process. 

Solarize Greater Philadelphia is also partnering with Capital Good Fund, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), to bring Pennsylvania BRIGHT to residents of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania BRIGHT uses an inclusive solar financing model to support eligible homeowners install solar at no upfront cost. 

Low- to moderate-income households may soon be eligible for Solar for All, a program funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. Solar for All is designed to pair rooftop solar installation with necessary roof repairs and electrical upgrades for eligible homes. Qualifying homeowners will be able to enter into a power purchase agreement and receive a minimum 20-percent savings on their electricity bill.

Questions about Solarize Greater Philadelphia can be directed to solarize@philaenergy.org.

The post Solarize Greater Philadelphia Launches, Broadening Region’s Solar Programs first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.

Contacts:
Ben Block
Senior Manager Communications
Philadelphia Energy Authority
(215)688-5134
Media@philaenergy.org

PHILADELPHIA, April 24 – The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) and City leadership announced findings from a University of Pennsylvania Crime and Justice Policy Lab study showing that the Philly Streetlight Improvement Project (PSIP) has achieved a 21-percent reduction in nighttime outdoor gun crimes where new lights were installed. The study demonstrates the connection between this energy-saving citywide infrastructure project and improvements in public safety. 

PSIP is converting over 130,000 high pressure sodium streetlights into a network of more efficient, longer-lasting LED lights. It is the single largest energy conservation project the City has undertaken.

The study, led by University of Pennsylvania Professor of Criminology and Sociology John MacDonald, Ph.D., demonstrates that large-scale streetlight upgrades can lead to significant reductions in crime rates. The analysis evaluated the effect of upgrading 34,374 streetlights across 13,275 blocks in Philadelphia between August 2023 and May 2024. During that period, the studied areas experienced an overall 15-percent drop in nighttime outdoor crimes, including a 21-percent reduction in gun crimes, 20-percent decline in violent crimes, and 16-percent decrease in property crimes. The study also included a qualitative study of residents suggesting that perceptions of safety and neighborhood vitality improved following the installation of new streetlights.

“I am so proud of our City departments that have been important partners of the Philly Streetlight Improvement Project,” Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “As a cost-neutral, job-creating initiative that both reduces emissions and enhances public safety, it helps us to reach our goal of being a safer, cleaner and greener Philadelphia with economic opportunity for all. As an interdepartmental initiative, it demonstrates how our sustainability and lighting initiatives are improving safety and wellbeing in our neighborhoods.”

“The benefits of deploying cost-effective energy infrastructure like streetlighting citywide are not limited to energy and cost savings,” said Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson (Second District). “Brighter street lighting citywide has improved perceptions of safety and neighborhood vitality, demonstrating the City of Philadelphia and City Council’s commitment to improve quality of life in every neighborhood through reliable city services. Thank you to the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) for leading the Philly Streetlight Improvement Project and replacing our city’s outdated streetlights with new state-of-the-art lighting.”

“As a longtime champion of the Philly Streetlight Improvement Project, I’m thrilled to see that this citywide initiative is already paying off,” said Philadelphia City Council Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson. “Our communities have long known that by making investments in our lighting infrastructure, we can not only reduce the occurrence of violent crime, but address nighttime traffic fatalities as well. Better yet, in our efforts to upgrade all of Philadelphia’s 134,552 streetlights, we will be reducing energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Thank you to the entire team at the Philadelphia Energy Authority for their tireless leadership in this area. I can’t wait to see the continued progress on this project.”

“This study by the Crime and Justice Policy Lab suggests that large-scale streetlight upgrades have helped public safety in Philadelphia significantly,” said John MacDonald, Professor of Criminology and Sociology, University of Pennsylvania. “The strength of the results suggests that place-based crime prevention activities may help improve overall public safety at levels greater than previously observed.” 

PSIP is a citywide effort led by PEA and the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Streets and Office of Sustainability. More than 105,000 fixtures have been installed since construction began in August 2023. The project is being delivered on time and on budget with an expected completion date in Fall 2025. 

The $91 million Guaranteed Energy Savings Act project pays for itself with $8 million dollars of annual energy and operational savings to the City. The project will reduce municipal carbon emissions by nearly 10% — more than any other energy efficiency project — making it a key strategy in the City’s Municipal Energy Master Plan.

“Energy efficiency is one of our most effective tools for tackling some of Philadelphia’s biggest challenges,” said PEA President & CEO Emily Schapira. “PSIP is a great example of an energy project that checks all the boxes – delivering updated critical infrastructure, improving public safety, and driving economic and environmental benefits to businesses and residents. We hope these significant findings will encourage peer cities to follow Philadelphia’s lead in using energy as a tool to improve quality of life.”

“PSIP shows how sustainability initiatives deliver win-win outcomes that improve safety and wellbeing in our neighborhoods, while simultaneously getting us closer to our long-term climate goals,” said Liz Lankenau, Director, Office of Sustainability. “The City is committed to launching innovative initiatives that create a virtuous cycle of social, economic, and environmental benefits for all Philadelphians.”

PSIP prioritizes local, diverse economic development and workforce opportunities. The Streets Department used its Future Track program to support PSIP’s alleyway clearing to allow for access to fixture replacements, supporting employment of over 200 people and training for future City employment. In addition to Future Track, the project brought manufacturing opportunities to Philadelphia, partnering with American Power Electrical Supply Company, a minority business entity (MBE), to set up an on-site final assembly pod and hire a local team of six young people to assemble and test 40,000 fixtures for use on PSIP. 

“The Philly Streetlight Improvement Project has it all, workforce development, energy efficiency, and public safety.” said Department of Streets Commissioner Kristin Del Rossi. “These are benefits you can see and feel in communities all across Philadelphia.”

“The Office of Clean and Green is extremely proud of the work Future Track completed for the Philly Street Light Improvement Project,” said Carlton Williams, Director, Office of Clean and Green Initiatives. “Future Track participants cleaned over 1,800 alleyways during the project, clearing the way for alley lights to be repaired, making it safer and cleaner for our citizens. These alleyways are now accessible for the police and fire in cases of emergency.” 

“At the Office of Public Safety, we recognize that a coordinated all-of-government approach is needed to create safer communities and to reduce violence on our streets. We are all safer as a result of the collaborative process that led to successful implementation of the Philly Streetlight Improvement Project,” said Chief Public Safety Director Adam Geer. “Recognizing the powerful potential for LED streetlight conversions to enhance public safety, the PSIP team embraced partnering with the University of Pennsylvania’s Crime and Justice Policy Lab to rigorously validate the safety potential of this transformative project. The Office of Public Safety is very pleased to have played a role in this important study.”

“We’ve long had an intuitive sense that lighting could reduce crime by creating a deterrence against criminal activity that would otherwise go unnoticed. We’ve also had a few previous studies showing the potential of lighting to improve public safety in specific places, but this is the first look at the effects of a citywide lighting strategy,” MacDonald said. “Even as Philadelphia was dropping in violence overall, our research suggests that better lighting infrastructure contributes to meaningful reductions in crime – over and above the citywide trends.”

“We were proud to support the University of Pennsylvania Crime and Justice Policy Lab and Philadelphia Energy Authority in bringing community voices into this important project,” said Arun Prabhakaran, President, Urban Affairs Coalition. “Through focus groups held in neighborhoods most impacted by gun violence, residents shared how the new streetlights are shaping their sense of safety and daily experience. It’s critical that residents have a voice in shaping solutions that affect their blocks, their safety, and their everyday lives.”

PRESS KIT

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About Philadelphia Energy Authority 

The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) is an independent municipal authority focused on building a robust, equitable clean energy economy for Philadelphia. Launched in 2016, PEA leads the Philadelphia Energy Campaign, a $1 billion, 10-year investment in energy efficiency and clean energy projects to create 10,000 jobs. To date, PEA has supported over $1 billion in projects and created more than 8,300 jobs. Learn more atwww.philaenergy.org.

About Philadelphia City Council

Philadelphia City Council is the legislative arm of Philadelphia municipal government. Keep up with Council on phlcouncil.com, and on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

The post Study Finds Citywide Streetlight Replacement Project Achieves 21% Reduction in Gun Violence first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.

Through the partnership, the G.E.T. Solar initiative’s free technical assistance will be combined with financial guidance made available from the Philadelphia Green Capital Corp. Solarize Greater Philadelphia will support eligible properties located throughout Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery or Philadelphia counties, offering trusted, unbiased technical assistance to large consumers of energy who are considering an on-site solar installation.

To learn more about the G.E.T Solar Initiative: 

• Download the launch presentation
• Watch the full presentation
• Complete an intake form

This initiative is made possible with the lead support provided by the William Penn Foundation and additional support from the Green Family Foundation.

Since its inception in 2017, PEA’s Solarize Philly has enabled over 3,800 homeowners to go solar and install 20 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity. Solarize for commercial properties has generated 2 MW of solar capacity in just three years. Altogether, $79 million has been invested in Philadelphia’s clean energy economy.

Building upon these accomplishments, Solarize Greater Philadelphia participants will be guided through various federal tax incentives, grants, and special financing options. Participants can save more than 30 percent off the cost of a solar installation. G.E.T Solar offers assistance connecting participants with  qualified and reputable solar developers.

“Solar energy is a fantastic investment – especially at a time when electricity costs are forecast to climb higher and higher,” said Lisa Shulock, Director of Commercial Programs at the Philadelphia Energy Authority. “With the proper system design and the right mix of financial incentives, solar energy significantly reduces operating costs at facilities large and small. Adding solar is a particularly smart approach for large energy consumers facing unpredictable and escalating electricity prices.”

“With energy bills rising significantly over the past few years, and projected to rise up to an additional 29 percent in 2025, many consumers are saving significantly by flipping the switch to solar,” said Sharon Pillar, Founder and Executive Director of the PA Solar Center. “Larger consumers of energy like businesses and other organizations can often save thousands to tens of thousands of dollars on their electric bills. Further, there are current tax credits and grant programs in place that can make the transition very favorable to the consumer – but we don’t know how long these programs will be around, so we’re encouraging businesses and tax-exempt organizations to lock them in by going solar as soon as possible.”

Past participants of the G.E.T. Solar initiative from across the state are now benefiting with significant financial savings. Wesley Family Services in Westmoreland County, for example, estimates that their solar installation will save the non-profit organization $700,000 over the next 25 years. Their solar installation covers an estimated 78 percent of monthly electrical demand.

The Pennsylvania Solar Center has mapped, via its volunteer SolarCorps program, more than 100 commercial and tax-exempt organizations across Low-Income Disadvantaged Communities (LIDAC) in Montgomery County. These sites offer the potential to install an estimated 26 MW of solar energy. The G.E.T. Solar initiative will continue to map the solar potential of disadvantaged communities throughout the Greater Philadelphia region over the coming year.

ABOUT THE PHILADELPHIA ENERGY AUTHORITY

The Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) is an independent municipal authority focused on building a robust, equitable clean energy economy for Philadelphia. PEA leads the Philadelphia Energy Campaign, a 10-year investment in energy efficiency and clean energy projects. To date, PEA has supported more than $1 billion in projects and created more than 8,300 jobs. Learn more at www.philaenergy.org. 

ABOUT THE PENNSYLVANIA SOLAR CENTER

The PA Solar Center is a 501c3 nonprofit organization with the mission to expand the benefits of solar to all Pennsylvanians. The Center offers technical assistance to non-profit organizations, businesses, and communities to help them go solar, savvy media communications and online resources for all solar stakeholders, and education for decision-makers and advocates about the benefits of robust solar policy. The PA Solar Center provides an online directory of qualified solar developers, a map of notable solar installations, a monthly solar webinar series, and a listing of solar events happening across the state. Learn more at www.pasolarcenter.org.  

Learn more about the G.E.T. Solar initiative and complete the intake form.

The post PEA Partners with Pennsylvania Solar Center to Expand Solar Energy Across Region first appeared on Philadelphia Energy Authority.