Pennsylvania Schools Anticipate Solar Savings, Emissions Cuts Amid Tax Credit Rollbacks

Despite the rollback of federal clean energy tax credits in President Donald Trump's 2025 budget bill, many Pennsylvania schools remain committed to installing solar panels under the state's Solar for Schools program. This program, which awarded grants to 74 schools, helps districts offset upfront costs for solar arrays that can significantly reduce their long-term utility bills. New studies by PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center highlight that installing solar panels on school roofs across Pennsylvania could save districts an estimated $342 million over the systems' lifespan, power 187,000 homes annually, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to removing nearly 300,000 cars from the road. Philadelphia schools alone could save about $20 million over 25 years, though upfront costs are high, and currently only two district schools have solar systems. In Berks County, solar projects could yield nearly $12 million in savings and cut nearly 9,800 tons of carbon pollution, with the county ranking among the top in potential solar energy benefits. Local officials and advocates emphasize the environmental and financial benefits of solar energy, noting that schools' large, flat roofs are ideal for solar installations and that federal tax credits may still be accessible for projects started by next summer.