Pennsylvania renews Solar for Schools program with increased funding
The commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Solar for Schools grant program has been renewed for a third straight year, according to officials from the Pennsylvania House Democrats Caucus.
Coming as part of the 2026-27 state budget, the renewal comes with an additional $25 million in funding, the organization says. The program “represents a major public investment in clean energy,” while also delivering financial support for regional school districts, as well as intermediate units and community colleges.
“I’m so thrilled that more school districts will soon be able to bring home the transformational benefits of solar energy,” says Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, who introduced the bill. “This would not be possible without the support of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle and many, many advocates.
“Our schools are not exempt from the affordability crisis facing Pennsylvania. My hope is that Solar for Schools offers a tool to help them combat rising, unpredictable energy costs and put the money toward what matters most: educating our young people.”
The caucus says that more than 45 school districts around Pennsylvania have already received the necessary funding to construct solar panels. Some awardees, the group adds, are already preparing to break ground this summer.
Acting on the state level
The new solar funding bill represents a wider shift in the handling of renewable energy projects in the U.S., the caucus says. With the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and added FEOC restrictions taking away some of the federal incentives for solar projects, the group adds that there has never been a better time for state governments to step in.
Additionally, projects and initiatives like this are good for more than simple energy generation, according to the caucus. Construction of renewable energy projects can help create high-paying jobs throughout the commonwealth for local union laborers.
“More solar doesn’t just mean more energy, it means more union jobs for Pennsylvania’s skilled trades, who install and maintain these panels year-round,” says Rob Bair, president of the PA Building and Construction Trades Council. “The legislature has made a smart choice to keep this program alive for a third year and help push Pennsylvania’s workforce to the forefront of the clean energy sector.”
Shannon Crooker, Pennsylvania director for the non-profit Generation180, says that renewal of the Solar for Schools program shows that legislators around the state are listening to the needs of their constituents. With utility rates spiking for homes and businesses alike, solar and renewable energy has never been more valuable, she says.
“By renewing the Solar for Schools grant program, lawmakers are walking the walk – making sure PA children have the chance to learn in a healthy, modern school environment powered by clean, affordable energy,” Crooker says. “Pennsylvania is a shining example of tapping the power of solar energy–investing in a better future for our children’s health and learning, reducing costs for schools, and saving taxpayer dollars over time.”
