Solar for Schools Grant Program (S4S)
Forecasted
Solar for Schools Grant Program (S4S) supports Pennsylvania schools and colleges with solar energy installations that convert or store sunlight as electricity or heat while reducing implementation costs.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates: January 31, 2025 (Initial application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $900,000 and 75% of project costs, depending on the applicable aid ratio
Summary: Supports solar energy installations at eligible Pennsylvania schools and colleges to reduce implementation costs.
Key Information: Applicants must own the project facility and cannot begin work before DCED approval.
Description
The Solar for Schools Grant Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). Established under the Solar for Schools Act of July 17, 2024, it reduces the cost of implementing solar energy systems at schools across Pennsylvania. It supports photovoltaic and solar thermal projects that convert, transfer, or store solar energy as usable electricity or heat.
Funding supports equipment purchase and installation, energy storage, permitting, utility interconnection, and other eligible implementation costs. Projects may serve educational buildings or applicant-owned support buildings, including bus garages and district offices. Each project must pass a Solar Facility Site Assessment evaluating site suitability and anticipated energy or operating-cost reductions.
