In an effort to promote cleaner and more sustainable energy practices, an interfaith group in Philadelphia, known as Power Interfaith, is calling on southeastern Pennsylvania utility company PECO to commit to long-term contracts for solar and wind power. The group contends that these renewable sources offer cheaper alternatives to fossil fuels, challenging PECO's preference for short-term contracts that favor the latter.
Julie Greenberg, the director of Power's climate justice and jobs initiative and a rabbi for a Philadelphia congregation, is urging PECO to incorporate a substantial amount of affordable renewable energy into its upcoming four-year energy procurement plan, due to state regulators next year. Greenberg raises concerns about PECO's tendency to propose only the minimum requirements mandated by Pennsylvania law, citing their actions from four years ago.
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Dwayne Royster, the executive director of Power Interfaith and a senior pastor at Faith United Church of Christ in Washington, DC, emphasizes the importance of diversifying PECO's energy sources. He points out that Pennsylvania currently ranks 45th out of 50 states in renewable energy generation, utilizing wind, solar, and hydro power.
Royster highlights the potential risks to households struggling with energy bills, given PECO's heavy reliance on fossil fuels, particularly natural gas. He stresses the need for transitioning to cleaner energy sources in response to climate change impacts that are already affecting Philadelphia, such as hotter summers, flooding, and extreme weather events.
The interfaith group draws inspiration from other utilities in Pennsylvania that have committed to long-term power purchasing contracts for solar energy, supporting infrastructure development.
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Previously, the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC) approved a PECO proposal to seek ten-year contracts for Solar Alternative Energy Credits in 2020.
Power Interfaith aims to leverage collective support to shift the region's energy production away from fossil fuels and towards clean and sustainable wind and solar power. Their advocacy for clean energy is driven by the desire for a healthier environment and a brighter future for children.
The group acknowledges the social and economic benefits of renewable energy, as highlighted by Anthony Ross, a solar installer with Solar States. Ross shares his personal journey, describing how his involvement in the solar industry helped him overcome personal challenges, including homelessness and incarceration. He also raises concerns about the negative health impacts of fracking, particularly in low-income rural areas.
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Power Interfaith operates in the Philadelphia metropolitan area and credits the Earth Quaker Action Team for its work in advocating for local green jobs through solar expansion.
