Whitehall Borough Embraces Solar Power, Projects Critically important Savings
Whitehall Borough has successfully transitioned to solar energy with the installation of a 22.2-kW system on its council building. this initiative, facilitated by the PA Solar Center, is projected to generate approximately 26,000 kWh annually, covering over 90% of the facility’s energy needs and saving the borough an estimated $100,000 over the next 25 years.
The move to solar is a strategic response to escalating energy costs, a challenge faced by many municipalities. “Whitehall Borough is thrilled to save taxpayers significant money by making the switch to solar, and to be able to reinvest those savings into strengthening our community,” stated Courtney Wertz, Whitehall Borough manager. She added, “Like so many other municipalities and government entities, the borough has been grossly impacted by the rising price of energy, so it is indeed a relief to take power into our own hands and save big with the help of solar.”
Leo kowalski, director of transformation at the PA solar Center, highlighted the broader implications of Whitehall’s decision. “It is indeed our hope that Whitehall Borough will serve as an inspiration to other local municipalities and organizations in flipping the switch to solar,” Kowalski commented. He emphasized that larger energy consumers can often realize substantial savings on their electricity bills. Moreover, Kowalski pointed to the current availability of tax credits and grant programs that make solar adoption particularly advantageous. He urged businesses and tax-exempt organizations to capitalize on these incentives, as their duration is uncertain.
The adoption of solar energy is a growing trend across the nation, offering significant financial benefits to businesses, nonprofits, communities, and residents by reducing utility expenses and providing a hedge against fluctuating electricity prices. Kayla Reedy,owner of Elysium Solar Energy,commended Whitehall Borough’s proactive approach. “Due to circumstances out of most peopel’s control, electricity costs have been extremely volatile over the past several years,” Reedy noted. “We congratulate Whitehall Borough for taking action and having the determination to move into the clean energy economy.”
