PennEnvironment

Pennsylvania’s Solar for Schools program has been renewed for a third year with $25 million in funding to support solar energy installations at schools, reducing costs and promoting renewable energy. The program, introduced by State Rep. Elizabeth Fielder, now allows grants to cover up to 75% of solar projects, aiding schools in managing energy expenses and creating job opportunities through partnerships with labor unions.

The Shapiro administration announced a working group involving 11 state agencies to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions, improve public safety, and reconnect fragmented habitats in Pennsylvania. The effort, co-led by the Department of Transportation and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, includes a $840,000 federal grant for wildlife crossing planning, following a 2024 House resolution and advocacy by environmental groups like PennEnvironment.

Pennsylvania ranks 47th in adding renewable energy to its electric grid, with only 5% of electricity from renewables, primarily natural gas. The state lags behind others due to stagnant policies and lack of incentives for solar and wind energy, though solar power has more than doubled in the past two years.