House Bill 1032: An Act establishing the Solar for Schools Grant Program; and providing for powers and duties of the Department of Community and Economic Development.
HB 1032 provides grants to install solar systems on public K-12 schools, community colleges, and career technical schools across Pennsylvania. The program would fund 50% of the cost of project construction. Federal funds from the Inflation Reduction Act would cover 30- 50% of the remaining installation costs, with school districts responsible for the balance, plus operation and maintenance.
Energy costs are the second biggest expense (after personnel) for schools. Using their own solar systems will help schools save money to use on other much needed educational programs. HB 1032 has strong bipartisan and labor union support.
Every dollar invested in their solar arrays will result in three dollars of savings to schools. So, if the grant is $100,000, a school will save $300,000.
HB1032 has passed in the PA House. Please urge your PA state senator to support it when it moves to the senate after the recess.