It’s SOLAR time!
The Philadelphia Solar Energy Association (PSEA) is a volunteer-based, member-supported nonprofit whose goal is to promote the rapid adoption of solar energy across the state. Founded in 1980, PSEA has sponsored the Junior Solar Sprint every year since 1993, inspiring many young people to pursue careers in math, engineering and science. PSEA has played a key role in the development of clean energy policies in Pennsylvania towards accelerating the adoption of solar energy to reduce our carbon footprint, improve resilience and energy security and increase our energy independence.
Our History & Mission
Sun Day, September 21st: a Celebration of Solar Energy
Sun Day is a national day to celebrate the incredible success that solar energy is having and to support even greater progress. There will be hundreds of events across the country. Sun Day Philly at Love Park is cosponsored by PSEA and Third Act PA. The day will be packed with solar powered and inspired activities for all ages: solar kits for teachers, demonstrations by students, model solar car races, solar s'mores, live music, arts, education and actions we can all take to save money and support more affordable clean energy for all.
Soaring Electricity Prices
Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the entire region are experiencing unprecedented and unwelcome increases in energy prices. PECO customers saw a 12% rate increase in January of 2025, followed by an increase of 15% in June due to PJM's capacity auction. Unfortunately prices will rise at least another 5% due to the most recent capacity auction. PJM has created a bottleneck by not processing applications for new generation, at the exact time that the demand for electricity is rapidly increasing. An article from Inside Climate News does an excellent job of explaining the situation.
PA Funds 73 schools to Go Solar
Perfect timing! 73 grants to help public schools and community colleges across PA go solar and save big were announced. Five Philly public schools and Community College of Philadelphia are among the 25 winners in southeast PA. By going solar, each school can expect to save an average of $1 million dollars on their electricity bills over the next 20 years! This couldn’t come at a better time as electricity rates are rising again across Pennsylvania. Here is a list of all the winners statewide and here is a recent article in the Inquirer.. Governor Shapiro has put another $25 million in the budget to continue this program next year.
Solar Curriculum
Looking for already created lesson plans that can be used to educate your students on clean energy solutions? Check out our lesson plans for 5th, 6th and 9th grades.
‘We’re not breathing fumes’: Homeowners use tax credits to purchase new EV, water heater
PSEA's own Liz Robinson hosted a Front Porch Ribbon Cutting event on September 3rd to celebrate another step in electrifying her family's home. She and husband Paul Ricker have been replacing all their fossil fuel appliances with new high efficiency electric appliances.