Solar for Schools Grant Program (S4S)

The Solar for Schools Grant Program, established by Pennsylvania's Solar for Schools Act, aims to reduce the costs of implementing solar energy systems in educational institutions across the state. The program, administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), provides grants to various eligible educational entities, including public school districts, intermediate units, charter schools (including cyber, regional, and schools for the deaf or blind), area career and technical schools, and community colleges. The funding is designed to cover costs associated with the purchase and installation of solar energy equipment, energy storage, engineering, site preparation, and other professional services. Eligibility for the grant requires a Solar Facility Site Assessment conducted by a qualified provider to determine the feasibility and potential cost savings of the proposed solar project. Eligible projects must involve photovoltaic or solar thermal systems that convert solar energy into usable electric or thermal power. The funds can be used for equipment purchases, energy storage, related engineering costs (capped at 10% of the grant), and permit fees (limited to 2% of the grant). However, costs incurred before grant approval, fines, lobbying expenses, and interest on borrowed funds are ineligible. The grant amount depends on the applicant's Market Value/Personal Income Aid Ratio (MV/PI AR), with the maximum grant ranging from $300,000 to $500,000, covering 30-50% of project costs. Projects are evaluated based on regional distribution, feasibility, readiness, energy impact, and use of U.S.-made equipment. Special consideration is given to projects near coal plant closures, applicants seeking Inflation Reduction Act benefits, and those integrating solar energy into educational programs. Applications are submitted through DCED's online portal and must include a detailed project description, funding commitments, a solar curriculum plan, site maps, a Solar Facility Site Assessment, a formal resolution from the governing board, planning compliance for ground-mounted systems, and utility support documentation. Grant agreements must be signed within 30 days of approval, and costs are reimbursed based on submitted documentation.