The Human Rights Coalition of Philadelphia will hold a Town Hall in West Philly to discuss Community Solar projects this Saturday, April 26. The event is part of the organization’s campaign to raise Philadelphians’ climate consciousness and promote energy democracy.

Community Solar projects enable people to invest in clean solar energy and receive a credit for the resulting savings on their monthly electricity bills. Such projects are of particular value to renters, who today make up nearly half of all City residents. Projects can be organized by churches, civil organizations, or private companies, and they can be located in vacant lots, fields, or on warehouses roofs. While laws authorizing Community Solar have been enacted in 22 states and the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania is lagging behind this trend. However, a Community Solar bill (HB 1155, Schweyer) has been introduced in the PA State House.

The Town Hall will feature Elowyn Corby of the Our Solar Now Coalition as keynote speaker. State Rep. Rick Krajewski, a cosponsor of HB 1155, has been invited to join the discussion. The Town Hall will be held at 316 N. 42nd Street, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.. Lunch will be provided.

– Elaine Fultz