WEST CHESTER, PA — The West Chester Area School District has been awarded a $167,514 Solar for Schools Grant to install solar energy systems at East Bradford Elementary School, marking a significant step toward sustainable energy use. The grant, part of Pennsylvania’s Solar for Schools Grant Program, is designed to lower the costs of adopting solar energy in educational institutions.
State Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester, emphasized the dual impact of the initiative. “Our schools are great places to implement clean energy. They sit in open spaces and receive plenty of sunshine. By putting in solar panels at East Bradford Elementary, we harness energy from the sun to help that school become energy-independent, lower our carbon footprint, and save taxpayer dollars. It is a win-win scenario for everyone.”
The Solar for Schools Grant Program, established in July 2024, aims to make renewable energy more accessible to schools, intermediate units, charter schools, technical schools, and community colleges. Funding covers various expenses, including equipment purchase, installation, permit fees, energy storage, and utility interconnection.
Administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, the program reflects Pennsylvania’s broader commitment to clean energy initiatives and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By offsetting costs, the grants make renewable energy an attainable goal for schools, fostering environmental responsibility and fiscal benefits.
This grant positions East Bradford Elementary as a local leader in sustainable practices and demonstrates how public funding can drive environmental and economic progress. With this support, the district is set to contribute to a greener future while paving the way for other schools to explore similar initiatives.
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