It’s time for Allegheny County’s school districts to lead the way in creating a cleaner, smarter, and more cost-effective future—starting with solar energy.

A new report by PennEnvironment shows that if every public school in Allegheny County switched to solar power, our schools and local taxpayers could save $21 million in energy costs in just the first year. Over 25 years, the savings could exceed $44 million—money that could be reinvested in classrooms, teachers, and student services rather than sent to utility companies.

The benefits go beyond budgets. By transitioning to solar energy, our schools could slash more than 4,600 tons of carbon emissions every year. That’s a major step toward addressing Pittsburgh’s ongoing air pollution crisis and protecting public health. Doctors like State Rep. Arvind Venkat are sounding the alarm: the impacts of fossil fuel pollution—like asthma and heart conditions—are being felt in our hospitals now. We can’t afford to wait.

Solar isn’t just good policy—it’s good teaching. Installing panels on schools gives students hands-on opportunities to learn about renewable energy and sustainability. And when schools go solar, it often inspires neighbors to make the switch too. The movement grows community by community.

We recognize that upfront costs can be challenging. But right now, schools have access to historic levels of support: state programs like Pennsylvania’s “Solar for Schools” initiative (offering up to $500,000 in grants), and federal incentives that last through 2027. Other schools in our region have already proven this works—like Clairton Middle/High School, which saw significant savings as part of a $30 million regional benefit from just two dozen projects.

The technology is ready. The money is available. The climate crisis is here. Let’s act.

We call on all superintendents, school boards, and local elected officials in Allegheny County to commit to making their schools solar-powered. It's a win for our students, our environment, and every taxpayer in our community.

Sign now to demand solar power for Allegheny County schools. Let’s lead the state—and set an example the whole country can follow.