Solar for Schools grant program now accepting applications

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    December 2, 2024 | 2:08 PM

HARRISBURG, Dec. 2 – A new state grant program designed to benefit Pennsylvania schools is now accepting applications until Jan 31, 2025.

Solar for Schools, introduced by state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., will help school districts install solar panels on their roofs or grounds. Solar is a cheap energy source that can free up funds for schools that currently rely on fluctuating, market-rate energy.

“While Solar for Schools will undoubtedly deliver tremendous savings to schools, I believe its positive impact will be even bigger,” Fiedler said. “The workers who install these solar panels will earn living wages that support their families. Kids in classrooms will get to see firsthand the careers of skilled trades workers and use the solar panels as an educational tool. And this is all while their school is contributing to a healthier environment for them to live in.” 

Some forward-thinking districts across Pennsylvania have already installed solar arrays and are reaping millions in savings. But not all schools have the necessary flexibility in their budgets to make such investments. In fact, the contrary is often true -- many PA school districts are recovering from decades of unconstitutional underfunding or face shrinking tax bases, expiring COVID-19 recovery funds and other financial challenges.

Solar for Schools grants cover up to 50% of the costs related to the purchase and installation of solar panels. Meanwhile the federal Inflation Reduction Act, which created the largest investment in clean energy in U.S. history, allows schools to recoup 30% to 50% of the cost of solar projects via direct pay. Combining state grants with IRA funding both defrays the cost of installation for schools and drives federal investment into Pennsylvania.

Eligible applicants include school districts, intermediate units, charter schools, career and technical schools and community colleges. Organizations including the PA Solar Center and Generation180 offer free technical assistance to school districts that are considering applying, as capacity allows.

"Any schools interested in going solar should definitely reach out to the PA Solar Center for assistance on meeting application requirements, which include a solar feasibility study. Our assistance is free or low cost to many schools," said Sharon Pillar, founder and executive director of the PA Solar Center. "Our website also contains a wealth of information on solar that could prove helpful to them, like a previously recorded webinar on the Solar for Schools grant program and our GET Solar Schools program."

“Pennsylvania is leading the way and now ranks among the top 10 states in the country for solar-powered schools. The Solar for Schools grant program is a game changer that will help more schools across the Commonwealth access the cost-saving and educational benefits of solar energy,” said Shannon Crooker, Pennsylvania director at Generation180. “We want to see as many schools as possible take advantage of the state grant funds, and Generation180 is offering free solar facility site assessments and support to schools applying for this grant.”

The program is administered through the Department of Community and Economic Development. Interested school districts can view the full program guidelines and apply online.