Gov. Edward G. Rendell, D-Pa., has approved more than $23 million for 36 new solar and other alternative energy projects. The Commonwealth Financing Authority administers Pennsylvania's economic stimulus programs, including the $650 million Alternative Energy Investment Fund.
Among other recipients in this latest funding round, Chatham University will receive a $113,037 solar energy program grant to purchase and install solar thermal systems for two residence halls on its Pittsburgh campus. Chatham is partnering with system manufacturer Solar Tomorrow to complete the project.
The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens was approved for a $2 million loan to build its Center for Sustainable Landscapes Building on a remediated brownfield site in Pittsburgh. The new building will use the latest technologies, including photovoltaic installations.
Earth Rising Ventures Inc. was approved for $1.02 million for an LEED-platinum, mixed-use, high-performance building construction project in Kimberton Village's historic district, on a 1.4-acre brownfield site in East Pikeland Township. The building will use photovoltaic electricity and geothermal heat pumps.
SunEdison received approval for its $5 million solar energy program loan for a $19.9 million solar energy system at its Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co. facility in Carlisle. The company will invest $14.9 million for the system, which will cover 14.5 acres next to its facility.
Borrego Solar Systems Inc. will receive a $649,152 grant towards a $2.3 million solar photovoltaic system project for at the Tasty Baking Co. Borrego will provide $1.6 million in matching funds.
Dallastown Area School District will receive a $1 million solar energy program grant for a $3.4 million rooftop solar power system on the middle-school/high-school building in York Township. The school district will contribute $2.4 million.
SOURCE: Pennsylvania Office of the Governor
