Pielli introduces plug-in solar bill
Legislation would give Pennsylvania renters, homeowners more access to solar energy
Rep. Chris Pielli October 27, 2025 | 4:07 PM
HARRISBURG, Oct. 27 – State Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester, along with co-prime sponsors state Reps. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Philadelphia, and Mark Gillen, R-Berks, and solar energy advocates today discussed a bill (H.B. 1971) they introduced to eliminate barriers that Pennsylvanians face when it comes to accessing plug-in solar energy.
Specifically, the bill eliminates the requirement to obtain an interconnection agreement and prohibits electric distribution companies from imposing fees on systems that have obtained national safety certifications. Notably, these systems would be ineligible to participate in Pennsylvania’s net metering program.
“It’s no secret that Pennsylvanians are struggling to keep up with rising electricity bills,” Pielli said. "This legislation gives people a powerful way to fight back. Plug-in solar will give renters, apartment dwellers and homeowners a way to generate some of their own power and cut monthly costs. This isn’t about politics; it’s about putting money back in family budgets and giving people control over their energy in whatever space they have.”
“Pennsylvanians should have the freedom to choose how they power their homes, and plug-in solar is a cost-saving option that could benefit so many,” Fiedler said. “This is about independence and using the latest technology to generate more energy. It’s about giving people the freedom to plug in, power up and take part in the clean energy future."
“Plug-in solar is the future. It gives the 70% of Americans who cannot get rooftop solar an option to reduce their electricity bills by producing clean energy at home,” said Cora Stryker, co-founder of Bright Saver. “This visionary bipartisan coalition is leading us into a future in which everyone can produce their own electricity from the sun."
"Solar is one of the most powerful tools we have to reduce electricity costs," said Elowyn Corby, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director for Vote Solar. "When this bill passes, hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians who thought solar was out of reach will suddenly have an option. That's why I'm excited that our legislative leaders are stepping up to make plug-in solar a reality for us."
“I am proud to support legislation that empowers more Pennsylvanians to take control of their energy use,” Gillen said.
The bill has been officially introduced as H.B. 1971. It awaits action in the state House.