Philadephia Solar Energy Association
Description and services
The Philadelphia Solar Energy Association (PSEA) is a volunteer-based, member-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to promoting the rapid adoption of solar energy across the Philadelphia region and the entire state of Pennsylvania. Founded in 1980, PSEA’s core mission is to accelerate the use of solar energy to reduce the state’s carbon footprint, improve energy resilience and security, and increase energy independence. The organization has played a key role in the development of clean energy policies in Pennsylvania and is committed to disseminating information regarding clean energy, specifically solar energy.
PSEA engages in a variety of activities including educational programming and public policy advocacy. It has sponsored the Junior Solar Sprint annually since 1993, inspiring young people to pursue careers in math and science, and is developing solar curriculum for middle school students, including lesson plans for 5th, 6th, and 9th grades. On the policy front, PSEA actively supports community solar legislation (like HB 531) and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), and provides free technical assistance to schools and community colleges utilizing grants to go solar. Additionally, PSEA hosts community events, such as Sun Day Philly, and provides information to homeowners on electrification and utilizing tax credits for purchases like EVs and new water heaters.