EDP Renewables NA Distributed Generation is working with the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) to expand access to onsite renewable energy solutions for business, commercial and industrial properties throughout the city through its Solarize Philly Program.
Launched by PEA in 2017, Solarize Philly is Philadelphia’s first city-wide solar program. Solarize Philly aims to streamline the solar installation process and supports solar training at the School District of Philadelphia. Since the program’s launch, more than $12 million has been invested in communities across Philadelphia.
EDPR NA DG was selected through a public solicitation process to be one of Solarize Philly’s partners focused on providing commercial, industrial, and real estate property owners full turnkey onsite energy solutions. Technology solutions will range from distributed solar to co-located storage, EV charging, micro-grid, energy demand/energy resilience and energy efficiency technologies.
This year is the first time Solarize Philly Program is open to retail, commercial, and industrial entities throughout Philadelphia.
“At EDPR NA DG, we’re dedicated to providing equitable access to local, reliable, and cost-saving energy, regardless of where you live or do business,” said Richard Dovere, EDPR NA DG chief investment officer. “We’re delighted to be a part of Solarize Philly’s vital mission in supporting businesses on their net-zero carbon journey through the adoption of onsite renewable energy generation.”
Solarize Philly is identifying cost-effective and environmentally sound developments for Philadelphia; developing a local workforce; and educating Philadelphians about options available for renewable energy sources.
“Businesses are vital to the continued growth and development of Philadelphia,” said Emily Schapira, President & CEO of Philadelphia Energy Authority. “We’re excited for this collaboration with EDPR NA DG to reduce energy costs for our citizens’ businesses, support the community through the creation of good-paying jobs to bolster the local solar industry and assist our businesses in minimizing their carbon footprint.”
Philadelphia set a goal for carbon neutrality by 2050. To date, PEA has supported $167 million in clean energy projects, creating more than 1,700 jobs and is on track to create 10,000 jobs by 2026.
“The opportunity to have businesses power themselves by local clean energy whilst helping to spur additional 21st-century businesses, create jobs and provide a more resilient energy future for Philly is a ‘triple win’,” said Matt Stern, senior director of commercial programs at PEA.