Gov. Edward G. Rendell, D-Pa., has announced investments of more than $10 million for 12 new solar projects in the state. The total installed capacity of the planned projects is a little more than 9.1 MW, or enough to power approximately 1,000 homes.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) administers Pennsylvania's economic stimulus programs, including portions of the $650 million Alternative Energy Investment Fund.
The following projects were approved by the CFA on Dec. 17:
- Adams Electric Cooperative Inc. will receive an $84,240 solar energy program grant to install a ground-mounted solar generation system at its headquarters in Cumberland Township;
- Flabeg Solar U.S. Corp. will receive a $505,000 solar energy program grant to purchase and install machinery and equipment for a second silvering line for its facility in Findlay Township;
- Allegheny County will receive a $154,068 solar energy program grant to purchase and install a rooftop solar thermal system on the Allegheny County Jail in Pittsburgh;
- Tredyffrin Township will receive a $31,500 solar energy program grant to buy and install a solar photovoltaic system on top of turnpike sound barrier walls in the township;
- Big Spring School District will receive a $35,000 solar energy program grant to buy and install a photovoltaic roof panel system for the proposed new Plainfield Elementary School in West Pennsboro Township;
- Knouse Foods Cooperative Inc. will receive a $3.5 million solar energy program grant to construct a solar photovoltaic field on an 18-acre site in Dickinson Township;
- Lower Paxton Township will receive a $3 million solar energy grant to install a 3 MW solar photovoltaic system at its landfill;
- Romark Logistics of PA will receive a $2.1 million solar energy program grant toward building a 2 MW rooftop solar array at its 525,000 square-foot warehouse and distribution facility in Hazle Township;
- Harleysville Mutual Insurance Co. will receive a $355,000 solar energy program grant toward the cost of a 510.6 kW rooftop solar photovoltaic system at its Lower Salford Township facility;
- SKF USA Inc. will receive a $346,000 solar energy program grant to install a 411.3 kW solar photovoltaic system on the rooftop of its headquarters in Kulpsville;
- IBEW Local Union 98 will receive a $13,590 solar energy program grant to buy and install a solar photovoltaic system on the roof of its business office; and
- IBEW Local Union 98 Apprentice Training received a $4,530 solar energy program grant to buy and install a rooftop solar photovoltaic system on the roof of its building.
SOURCE: Pennsylvania Office of the Governor