Leach, Environmental Advocates Call for Enhancements to AEPS Tier 1

Last week Sen. Daylin Leach (D-Montgomery), Rep. Greg Vitali (D-Delaware), and environmental groups called for the passage of passage of SB 1171. The bill, sponsored by Leach, would increase state’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards act Tier 1 standard and solar carve out.
 
During a press conference, Leach said that his legislation would help to improve both the economy and environment. The state was a national leader in renewable energy production in 2004 when AEPS was first enacted, but the state has failed to update the act. Most of Pennsylvania’s neighbors, including Delaware, New Jersey, and Maryland all have higher alternative and clean energy requirements.
 
Leach said that SB 1171 would increase Pennsylvania’s Tier 1 share to 15 percent while creating little to no additional cost for consumers. He also said that an increase in AEPS would have a significant economic impact by requiring additional investment in renewable technologies and generation projects.
 
Vitali has authored a similar bill in the House (HB 100), which he says would create green jobs, support energy independence, and negate climate change.