Solar use in U.S. schools is growing in popularity. According to a study by Generation180, solar use in U.S. schools has quadrupled since 2014. Another study showed that 1 in 9 students now attend schools that are powered by solar. With more and more schools adding solar panels every day, in 2023, a report showed that more than 800 schools had added solar panels.

All schools, regardless of size, location, and wealth, should have access to clean and budget-friendly energy. However, some communities could benefit even more from the cost savings that solar technology offers.

How Can Schools Fund Solar Projects?

Third-party ownership models are great options for handling upfront solar installation costs. The Inflation Reduction Act is also making it more affordable for schools to use solar as a clean energy source. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, schools can receive tax credits, cash reimbursements, battery storage, and other options.

Leading the Charge! 

  • K-12 schools generate 1,814 megawatts of solar energy, which could power 330,000 households!
  • California, New Jersey, Arizona, Massachusetts, and Connecticut are the states leading the solar movement.
  • In some states (Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Minnesota, for example), state-funded grants are aiding schools in adopting solar power.

Giving Back to the Community

With energy bills decreasing thanks to solar energy, schools can now give back more to the community. For example, a county in West Virginia will be installing 10,000 solar panels across its schools in 2025. They will offer students apprenticeships for real-life experience installing solar panels. Solar panel installations can help students interested in STEM fields learn more about renewable energy, sustainability, and technology.

Climate Resilience

Incorporating battery storage into solar panel systems offers schools a reliable and resilient backup energy source. In times of power outages or natural disasters, having a solar-plus-storage system ensures that critical functions can continue without disruption. This resilience is particularly crucial in areas prone to weather-related power failures. Schools can function as community centers during emergencies, providing shelter, warmth, or cooling when needed.

Community Solar and Schools

Community solar can help schools expand the solar benefit beyond just their campuses. If schools become the sites for community solar installations, they can provide electricity to neighboring areas. This is currently taking place in the City of Denver.

A Sustainable Future for Schools

While the number of schools across the U.S. participating in solar is constantly growing, many schools are still not yet taking advantage of the benefits. Using solar in schools can offer financial benefits and educational opportunities, aid the community, and make schools more energy resilient.

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