Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Fiedler celebrates renewed funding for Solar for Schools, urges schools to apply in its second year

Fiedler celebrates renewed funding for Solar for Schools, urges schools to apply in its second year

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    November 17, 2025 | 3:22 PM

HARRISBURG, Nov. 17 – State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila., chair of the PA House Energy Committee, issued the following statement today on the inclusion of a $25 million appropriation for the Solar for Schools grant program in the 2025–26 state budget:

“I am so excited to see a second year of funding in the budget for the Solar for Schools program! After the overwhelming interest in the program during its first year, we now have the opportunity to invest in even more schools across the Commonwealth.

“Renewed funding for Solar for Schools is a huge win for education, labor, environmental interests, and savings for taxpayers! Energy costs are the second-highest expense for schools, regardless of region, so when schools save on energy, they can reinvest those savings elsewhere. Another $25 million means more schools benefiting from solar savings, more jobs, more energy on the grid, and a cleaner planet for everyone.

“This second year of funding is a testament to the bipartisan coalition we have built over the years to ensure this legislation’s passage and success. I’m thankful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for recognizing the value of investing in our schools to generate new energy and prevent cost increases for taxpayers. The first round of school grant recipients -- in rural, suburban, and urban districts -- will soon begin seeing the financial and environmental benefits of their solar installations.

“From our first round of Solar for Schools funding, we’re already hearing good news about projects underway. Erie County Technical School expects to start construction this year and estimates $6 million in savings over the life of their projects. That’s truly amazing news, especially as energy prices continue to rise every day.

“At a time when the fate of federal clean-energy programs is uncertain, it’s more important than ever for our state government to step up and take a leadership role on energy. The state legislature coming together to fund projects like Solar for Schools signals a changing tide in Pennsylvania, where we can recognize the many practical benefits of renewable energy.

“Now it’s time to spread the word and make sure school districts know they can and should apply, without delay. I encourage school district staff, school leaders, and even students to check out the Solar for Schools webpage at www.pahouse.com/Fiedler/Solar4Schools for updated information on how to apply as it becomes available.”