Pennsylvania BRIGHT expands solar leasing program statewide

Capital Good Fund is expanding its Pennsylvania BRIGHT solar leasing program statewide following an investment from Candide Group’s Afterglow Climate Justice Program. Started in 2024, Pennsylvania BRIGHT arranges solar project leasing for households earning less than $165,000 annually or in Low-Income, Disadvantaged Communities. Customers are eligible regardless of credit score, and the lease agreements are designed to reduce monthly energy costs and handle long-term project maintenance.

“Afterglow is proud to support the Pennsylvania BRIGHT residential program. Projects like Pennsylvania BRIGHT are critical for ensuring all communities can participate in a just climate transition,” said Neal Parikh, co-managing director of the Climate Justice Fund at Candide Group. “The savings these projects will generate ensure that Pennsylvania residents spend less of their income on energy bills. Capital Good Fund’s work in increasing access to affordable clean energy alternatives is a critical solution to rising energy costs affecting households across the U.S.”

The statewide expansion arrives as the residential investment tax credit expires at the end of 2025.

“Expanding Pennsylvania BRIGHT statewide is a milestone for energy equity,” said Andy Posner, Founder and CEO of Capital Good Fund. “At a time when energy costs are putting real pressure on working families, this program proves solar can be a powerful tool, opening doors so more Americans can save money and secure energy independence.”

With support from Leon Lowenstein Foundation, The Pittsburgh Foundation, The Heinz Endowments, Henry L. Hillman Foundation and BQuest Foundation, Capital Good Fund launched pilot programs in Southwest and Southeast Pennsylvania last summer. The Southeast program is powered by local partnerships with Philadelphia Green Capital Corporation and the Philadelphia Energy Authority, which operates Solarize Greater Philadelphia. Through Solarize Greater Philadelphia, participating installers will offer job opportunities and workforce training within the very same low-to-moderate income (LMI) communities where the solar systems are being leased.

“Pennsylvania BRIGHT makes it possible for LMI homeowners to reduce costs using clean, affordable solar energy,” said Maryrose Myrtetus, executive director of the Philadelphia Green Capital Corp. “Even though federal tax credits for residential installations expire later this year, solar leases are providing clear benefits. Pennsylvania BRIGHT removes upfront costs and credit barriers. By partnering with Solarize Greater Philadelphia, we’re making it possible for homeowners of all income levels to access savings and stability.”

Pennsylvania BRIGHT has helped over 60 households lower energy bills and build resilience across the Commonwealth.

“We have three grandchildren, and we want to send a message that there is another way,” said Mark Gorman, of Pittsburgh, who saw his solar system go live this spring. “Programs like Pennsylvania BRIGHT help bridge the gap so everyone can be part of the clean energy transition.”

News item from Capital Good Fund