Solar and electric buses at Pennsylvania school lead to major financial benefits
Steelton-Highspire School District shows how solar panels and electric school buses can help cash-strapped schools cut emissions and save millions, even when driven by financial necessity.
Jeff St. John reports for Canary Media.
In short:
- Steelton-Highspire School District in Pennsylvania installed a 1.7 MW solar array covering 100% of its electricity needs through a power purchase agreement, saving $3.6 million over 20 years.
- Federal rebates from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law helped the district afford electric buses, which cost more upfront but save $20,000 annually on fuel.
- Combining solar power with on-site bus charging reduced costs and avoided expensive utility upgrades, creating a model for sustainable school transportation.
Key quote:
“You can do it — but you gotta go out and do it.”
— Mark “JJ” Carnes, Business Manager, Steelton-Highspire School District
Why this matters:
Steelton-Highspire School District is proving that going green can also mean saving green. This project demonstrates how clean energy technologies can alleviate financial strains for underfunded schools while reducing carbon emissions. By leveraging federal programs and innovative financing, schools can tackle both budget deficits and climate challenges. Read more: Solar power at Pennsylvania schools doubled during the pandemic.
