City of Reading Initiates $17.9 Million Project to Reach 100% Renewable Energy by 2050

The City of Reading has entered the construction phase of a $17.9 million Guaranteed Energy Savings Act (GESA) project, in partnership with Schneider Electric, as part of its goal to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. The project includes the installation of solar canopies at key city buildings and over 4,300 solar panels to offset energy consumption, as well as upgrades to more than 3,000 LED lights and HVAC systems in public facilities. Expected to be completed by late 2026, the initiative will not only reduce energy costs but also improve safety and comfort for the community. The project is funded through a combination of capital recovery, federal incentives, and energy savings, and is projected to deliver substantial environmental benefits, such as reducing the carbon footprint equivalent to removing 454 cars from the road.