Local examples of renewable energy, energy efficiency projects from across the Commonwealth

PHILADELPHIA – Today, the PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center and Evergreen Collaborative unveiled Renewable Energy Success Stories in the Keystone State. The new interactive map highlights renewable energy and climate resiliency projects from all corners of Pennsylvania funded by recent federal clean energy investments from the Inflation Reduction Act. This new tool allows Pennsylvanians to explore cutting-edge projects, discover the efforts being made in their communities, and learn how they can tap into the available incentives themselves.

“These historic investments in renewable energy and climate resiliency have helped Pennsylvania churches go solar, our cities plant more trees, and help us leave a healthy planet for future generations,” said Ellie Kerns, the Climate and Clean Energy Advocate with PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center. “All across the Keystone State, our communities are saving energy and money, becoming more energy independent, and protecting our planet.”

The federal investments from the Inflation Reduction Act in Pennsylvania’s state agencies exceeds $3 billion. Additionally, during the first year of the Inflation Reduction Act’s tax credits for individuals, businesses and non-profits, 160,000 Pennsylvanians saved more than $260 million. These incentives have enabled Pennsylvanians to reduce energy costs, protect their health and environment, and move toward greater energy independence. 

“Federal investments are fueling growth in local industries, creating new jobs, and laying the groundwork for long-term prosperity,” said Julia Kortrey, Deputy State Policy Director of Evergreen Collaborative. “Beyond benefiting workers and families, they’re positioning Pennsylvania as a more competitive, affordable and sustainable force in the global economy. Pennsylvanians deserve an affordable, clean energy future, and these funds are making that future a reality.” 

Federal clean energy funding from the Inflation Reduction Act has made renewable energy and energy efficiency projects more affordable and accessible than ever before for businesses, residents and non-profit organizations across Pennsylvania. Projects highlighted in the map include:

• Berks County: Tulpa Canal Farm, a dairy farm, received a federal clean energy grant to install about 400 solar panels - 103kW. The installation is expected to save the farm $15,000 in energy costs each year.
• Lawrence County: Hall Industries, a machining and fabrication company in Ellwood City, is installing energy-efficient LED lighting with federal clean energy funding. This project is expected to lower their energy consumption by 14% and save the company $15,300 in energy costs each year.
• York County: As part of a $89 million grant, Harley-Davidson will be expanding and upgrading their York County facility for more energy-efficient EV motorcycle manufacturing and reducing waste from the painting process.
  
  

However, efforts by the Trump administration and some members of Congress to repeal the tax incentives could jeopardize these advancements and others across the state. Eliminating federal funding would stall clean energy growth, hinder progress in climate resiliency and delay energy efficiency improvements, putting Pennsylvania’s future at risk.  

“Repealing these grants and tax credits would make it harder for Pennsylvanians to choose clean energy and derail Pennsylvania’s renewable energy progress,” said Kerns. “We urge Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation to defend this important funding that is allowing Pennsylvanians across the state to save money and build a clean energy future.”

Find the map online here.