A lot. 

According to the PA Department of Environmental Protection, the combination of fuel savings (free sunlight) and anticipated cost savings (avoided public health and environmental damages) could result in a net benefit of over $1.6 billion annually from 2018 to 2030 if PA reached the modest goal of 10% solar by 2030.

But who sees those benefits? Another study looked more specifically at North Philadelphia, and predicted solar roofs could produce $45 million in direct net benefits without counting health, climate, or employment. When those benefits are included, the impact rises to around $340 million.

Most importantly, solar produces jobs-- a lot of them. Solar produces the most jobs of any power source by far, jobs that can be located in every neighborhood. In addition, solar installer is projected to be the fastest growing job in the US over the next 10 years.

References

Pennsylvania’s Solar Future Plan: Strategies to increase electricity generation from in-state solar energy.

Green Design Isn’t Just a Luxury. It Could Save Cities Billions.

Fastest Growing Occupations, Bureau of Labor Statistics

Solar Employs More People In U.S. Electricity Generation Than Oil, Coal And Gas Combined