SolarBank Corporation announces plans to develop a 7 MW DC ground-mounted solar project—the Stauffer Project—in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
New Pennsylvania Community Solar Project to Provide 24.8 MW DC
This project complements the 13.8 MW DC initiative and is part of a broader set of projects anticipated to reach a total capacity of 24.8 MW DC. The proposed community solar project, which would be among the first of its kind in Pennsylvania aims to give residents including renters and those without suitable rooftops access to solar energy without the need to install panels on their properties.
On March 26, 2024, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives approved House Bill 1842 which facilitates the potential development of community solar projects in the state. This legislation opens the door for companies like SolarBank to enter the region and deliver clean energy to residents across different income levels. The bill is now under consideration by the Pennsylvania Senate.
"Community solar projects enable the benefits of renewable energy to proliferate throughout communities in North America. Community members can subscribe to a shared solar power source and contribute to building a sustainable future without having to install their panels. We are excited for the next steps in developing the Stauffer project, which would be a significant milestone in SolarBank's community solar portfolio, in addition to being a part of Pennsylvania's historic move toward a cleaner future." said Dr. Richard Lu, SolarBank CEO.
Company Advances Solar Project Pending Legislative Approval
The Company has secured a lease for the Project site and will proceed with the next steps, including permitting, interconnection and obtaining the necessary financing for construction. The Project's development as a community solar initiative will depend on the final approval of House Bill 1842 by the Pennsylvania State government.
The clean energy produced by a community solar project is directly integrated into the local electricity grid. Depending on the project’s size and the number of panels, numerous renters and homeowners can receive credits on their electric bills, resulting in savings from the generated electricity. SolarBank's strategic emphasis on community solar supports its mission to provide clean and affordable energy to thousands of homes.
The development of the Project involves several risks. Any project is contingent upon obtaining interconnection approval, necessary permits and ongoing access to third-party financing arrangements for the Company, along with the inherent risks of constructing a solar power facility. Additionally, government entities may change, reduce, or eliminate incentives and policy support for solar energy, potentially making future projects economically unviable.
SolarBank’s Commitment to Renewable Energy Development
SolarBank Corporation is an independent developer and owner of renewable and clean energy projects, specializing in distributed and community solar initiatives in Canada and the USA. The Company focuses on developing solar, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and EV Charging projects that provide electricity to utilities, commercial, industrial, municipal and residential customers.
By maintaining a diverse portfolio across various leading North American markets—including projects with utilities, host off-takers, community solar and virtual net metering—the Company maximizes returns. With a potential development pipeline exceeding one gigawatt, SolarBank has successfully developed renewable and clean energy projects with a total capacity of over 100 megawatts.