YORK, Pa. (WHTM) – Half of all power used by 16 Pennsylvania state agencies will soon be solar-generated, Governor Josh Shapiro announced Monday.

Through the Pennsylvania Project to Utilize Light and Solar Energy (PA Pulse) initiative, the state has committed to purchase half of its electricity from 10 solar arrays statewide.

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Shapiro was in the Midstate at one of those arrays in West Manchester Township near York to announce the initiative on Earth Day.

“This is a big deal,” said Shapiro. “It’s going to mean more good paying jobs for Pennsylvanians, more reliable, affordable electricity for the Commonwealth, and fewer carbon emissions that are contributing directly to climate change.”

Lightsource bp owns and operates the arrays, with another in Fermanagh Township, Juniata County. Other arrays are in Columbia, Crawford, Northumberland, and Snyder Counties.

Through the initiative, Shapiro says the state will purchase 361,000 megawatt-hours through a 15-year fixed price agreement to supply electricity to 16 state agencies and create 200 jobs.

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Shapiro says the commitment makes Pennsylvania a national leader in getting its power from renewable sources.

“When I announced my energy plan last month, I made clear that we must reject the false choice between protecting jobs and the economy and protecting the environment,” said Governor Shapiro. “The historic PA PULSE initiative, which began under the previous Administration, is proof we can do both – investing in reliable, affordable power in the long-term. With our energy plan and innovative projects like PA PULSE, my Administration will create energy jobs, take real action to address climate change pollution, ensure consumers pay less on their bills, and continue to ensure Pennsylvania maintains its energy independence for years to come.”

PA PULSE has been has been in the works for at least three years, since the Wolf Administration.

“Upon the completion of all 10 solar arrays, PA PULSE will enable the Commonwealth to slash its carbon footprint by a staggering 157,800 metric tons of CO2 annually. That is equivalent to removing emissions from nearly 35,000 fuel-burning cars each year,” said Reggie McNeil, Secretary of the Department of General Services.

The Governor says when built, the solar arrays will reduce the carbon emission of more than 30,000 cars and generate enough power formore than 30,000 residences in York County.

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