Pennsylvania schools go solar with grants

By Blake Jackson

Pennsylvania schools now have access to financial support for transitioning to renewable energy through the state’s $25 million Solar for Schools grant program. This initiative helps schools install solar energy systems by covering up to half the cost, depending on their financial need.

The program, championed by Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler and supported by both Democratic and Republican legislators, aims to provide schools with cost-saving energy solutions while also fostering education and sustainability. Schools can receive grants covering 30%, 40%, or 50% of installation costs, with the level of funding based on their economic circumstances. The state’s Department of Economic and Community Development oversees the program, providing technical and financial assistance.

Proponents of the initiative, including organizations like Generation180 and the Pennsylvania Solar Center, are actively supporting schools by offering free site assessments and guidance on the application process. “This program is a game changer,” said Shannon Crooker, Pennsylvania director at Generation180. “It allows schools to access the cost-saving and educational benefits of solar energy.”

By leveraging federal incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, schools can receive direct payments for renewable energy projects, making solar power more accessible to tax-exempt organizations. These additional funds enable many schools, which often face tight budgets, to explore solar energy as a viable solution.

The economic benefits are significant. Carlisle Area School District, for example, installed a solar array in 2011, covering half the cost with grants. Over the years, the district has saved over $1 million in energy costs while generating enough electricity to power an elementary school. These savings can be redirected toward pressing needs such as staffing, facility improvements, and modern learning materials.

Beyond cost savings, solar installations serve as educational tools. They help students learn about sustainability, energy production, and climate change while demonstrating concepts in math, science, and economics. Schools can also incorporate unique practices, such as using sheep to maintain vegetation around solar arrays, blending renewable energy with agricultural programs.

Supporters emphasize that the program benefits communities broadly by creating jobs in skilled trades and contributing to a cleaner environment. It’s a step toward a sustainable future that not only reduces schools’ energy costs but also inspires the next generation to embrace renewable energy.

Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska