Phoenixville Installs Solar Panels Atop Borough Hall

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — Phoenixville completed the installation of new solar panels on the roof of borough hall last week, marking a vital step in the borough's plan to rely fully on renewable energy by 2035.

It's the second major borough government building to receive solar panels, after the Public Works building on 2nd Avenue had panels installed in 2018.

"The installation of solar panels on the roof of Borough Hall is a proud step forward in Phoenixville’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy," Borough Council President Jonathan Ewald said in a statement. "This project underscores our dedication to reducing our carbon footprint while creating long-term energy savings for our community. By embracing clean energy solutions, we’re ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come."

While similar renewable energy commitments have become common across the country and around Pennsylvania in recent years, Phoenixville is trailblazer in the field, becoming the first community in Pennsylvania to make a clean renewable energy pledge back in Sept. 2017.

Given that 2035 is less than a decade away and that Borough Hall accounts for a significant portion of municipal energy use, the solar panel installations represent a key step forward.

Officials said the project included a new 27.26kWDC solar panel array, along with a ballasted racking system, solar modules, inverters, transformer, revenue grade meter, electrical panel, and web-based monitoring.

The project was spearheaded by Councilwoman Dana Dugan, who also pushed for the Public Works solar panels seven years ago.

"Not only does solar power help protect the environment, but more immediately, the ongoing fiscal benefits this project will provide to the Borough is the realization of an over decade long dream. I am thrilled to see this plan finally come to fruition," Dugan added.