Is East Penn going solar? District seeking proposals to build solar farm

EMMAUS, Pa. — While looking for methods to save costs and mitigate environmental impact, East Penn School District is making early steps for a potential solar energy project.

According to a release from the nonprofit Pennsylvania Solar Center, the group on behalf of the school district announced a request for proposals from solar companies until June 14.

The news release states that it is “in an effort to decide whether or not to go solar.”

“East Penn School District is striving to control our energy expenses and reduce our carbon footprint by potentially transitioning to solar energy, and we are looking for a developer to help us explore our options,” East Penn Facilities Director Steven Onushco said in the release.

“Our schools have certainly not been immune to the effects of inflation and other rising costs, and with the federal Inflation Reduction Act offering cost-saving incentives to go solar, there may not be a better time to make the switch.”

Onushco said the district has been investigating solar power for several years, and that such a project would be a 25-year commitment to any piece of property. He put the odds of it being fully pursued at about 50/50 for the moment.

Presentation slides provided by Onushco detailing the RFP for developers state that the district is aiming to offset electricity costs for Shoemaker Elementary School, Macungie Elementary School and Eyer Middle School, which all sit within a two-mile radius.

If approved, the ground mount solar project would sit on a field adjacent to Shoemaker and Macungie Elementary schools on Macungie Road.

Next steps in the process

The release states that the district is interested in a developer that can support educational initiatives to students, staff and the surrounding community regarding solar and renewable energy.

Preliminary assessment for proposals, according to the presentation, will take place in mid-June, with a developer’s proposal being selected by mid-August.

Scheduled next steps would be a presentation to the school board on Aug. 26, and potential board approval on Sept. 9.

The Pennsylvania Solar Canter’s G.E.T. Solar program for schools advocates for districts to consider investing in renewable energy, noting tax benefits from the Inflation Reduction Act and the potential to reduce electricity costs.

As a consultant, the group solicits vetted proposals from developers and assists districts in selection, education and financing strategies.

Pennsylvania currently has a list of state and federal financial incentives for taking steps to make energy consumption more efficient or renewable on the Department of Environmental Protection website.

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