Shop for Clean Energy & Take the Power Back

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Article posted by Rob Altenburg, Senior Director for Energy and Climate

National data show renewable energy is outpacing fossil fuels. Non‑hydro renewables grew by more than 13 percent in 2017 and utility‑scale solar jumped nearly 47 percent, while coal and natural‑gas generation declined. Falling costs mean solar electricity from large arrays and rooftop panels keeps getting cheaper, yet many Pennsylvanians can’t install solar at home because they rent, live in multi‑family buildings, or lack a suitable roof. Community solar programs exist in other states but Pennsylvania hasn’t adopted them, leaving roughly half of households without meaningful access to self‑generation.

PennFuture’s “Take the Power Back” campaign reminds residents that they still have a choice. Pennsylvania is one of 17 states with a retail electric choice program, allowing customers to buy electricity from a clean‑energy supplier instead of defaulting to whatever mix their utility procures. The campaign’s website explains how to shop for 100 percent renewable energy and stresses that switching can support jobs, reduce pollution and even save money. Pennsylvanians who already generate or purchase clean energy are encouraged to share their stories, spread the word on social media with #TakeThePowerBack and help neighbors take control of their power.