Lansdowne, PA – June 4, 2025

Solar for Schools program aims to reduce energy costs and reinvest savings into classrooms.

The William Penn School District is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $500,000 grant through Pennsylvania’s Solar for Schools program to support the installation of solar panels at Park Lane Elementary School. The funding is part of the state’s first round of investments in green energy for public schools, designed to cut long-term utility costs and create more sustainable campuses across the Commonwealth.

The Solar for Schools program was created through legislation championed by State Representative Elizabeth Fiedler (D–Philadelphia) and passed in 2024. This first round of grants, totaling $22.6 million, was distributed to 25 school entities in Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, and Delaware Counties. William Penn School District is one of only two districts in Delaware County to receive the maximum grant amount.

“We are thrilled to be part of this exciting initiative that brings clean energy and cost savings to our schools,” said Dr. Eric J. Becoats, Superintendent of William Penn School District. “This investment allows us to be good stewards of both our environment and our taxpayers’ dollars. The funds saved through lower utility costs will ultimately support teaching and learning for our students.”

The $500,000 award will cover up to 50% of the costs associated with solar panel installation at Park Lane Elementary. Additional federal funding and potential energy savings may help offset the remainder of the expenses. The goal is to create a long-term reduction in utility costs while also providing educational opportunities related to sustainability and clean energy for students.

The William Penn School District continues to seek innovative solutions to improve educational outcomes and build stronger, more sustainable schools. The district extends its gratitude to the Commonwealth Financing Authority and the leadership behind this groundbreaking program.

For more information about the Solar for Schools program or the district’s sustainability initiatives, please contact the Office of Communications and Marketing at dabrahamsson@wpsd.k12.pa.us.