The newly installed solar array at Gifford Pinchot State Park in York County contributes to sustainable energy.
York County has made a significant commitment to sustainability with the installation of Pennsylvania’s 30th public solar array at Gifford Pinchot State Park. This 342 kW solar installation not only promotes clean energy but is also expected to save taxpayers over $45,000 annually in electricity costs. The initiative aligns with broader goals of reducing the state’s carbon footprint and improving the sustainability of parks and public facilities, showcasing the importance of integrating modern technology with natural conservation efforts.
In a significant step towards a greener future, York County is embracing sustainability with the installation of Pennsylvania’s 30th public solar array at the Quaker Race Day Use Area in the beloved Gifford Pinchot State Park. This initiative is a bright example of the efforts being made by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to foster clean energy and cost-saving innovation.
The DCNR has been a beacon of climate leadership for the past 30 years, working tirelessly to promote sustainable practices and reduce emissions across the state. Established on July 1, 1995, the agency has now achieved a glorious milestone with this new solar array, which boasts an impressive capacity of 342 kilowatts (kW). Not only does this installation contribute to cleaner energy, it also provides much-needed shade for the ADA-accessible picnic area and parking in the park, showcasing that sustainability can be both functional and enjoyable for everyone.
One of the most exciting benefits of this solar project for taxpayers is the anticipated annual savings of over $45,000 due to the significant reduction in electricity costs. In a time when keeping expenses down is more crucial than ever, this green energy solution is music to the ears of Pennsylvania residents. Additionally, this array is expected to help decrease the DCNR’s carbon footprint by more than 163 metric tons each year. To put it in perspective, that’s like taking 38 passenger cars off the road!
But that’s not all. In conjunction with the 342 kW array, a larger 410-kW solar array has also been installed near the park’s sewage treatment plant. Combined, these two projects are projected to produce an astonishing total savings of over $100,000 annually for the state.
This new solar initiative aligns perfectly with Governor Josh Shapiro’s ambitious PA PULSE initiative, which aims to ensure that by 2026, half of Pennsylvania’s government operations will run on renewable energy. The goal for the DCNR is to source 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. With each new project, it gets closer to that target and builds a sustainable foundation for future generations.
Last year, the DCNR took a giant leap forward by contracting with the McClure Company to upgrade infrastructure and reduce emissions across 38 state parks and five forest districts. This means that the focus on clean energy isn’t just a one-off success; it’s part of a broader commitment to sustainability that is projected to save Pennsylvania over $40 million over the next two decades.
As the President of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation highlighted, the importance of sustainability cannot be overstated. It’s all about ensuring that the natural beauty of our parks and forests remains intact for the generations to come. With projects like the new solar arrays leading the way, Pennsylvania is setting an outstanding example of how to treasure nature while incorporating modern technology.
York County and the entire state of Pennsylvania are turning a bright new page in the journey toward sustainable living. The investment in solar energy showcases how innovation can lead to cost savings and environmental protection, benefiting everyone. So, here’s to many more milestones in clean energy and the health of our parks!
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