READING, Pa. – The City of Reading announced Tuesday it has moved into the construction phase of a project aimed at transitioning to 100% renewable energy by the year 2050.
Officials say the city’s strategic partnership with Schneider Electric reinforces a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency while substantially reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
The completion of the project is slated for late 2026 and involves upgrades to modernize city infrastructure.
This includes the installation of solar canopies at City Hall, the Public Works building and the Cedar parking lot, which city officials say will both generate energy and protect vehicles.
With over 4,300 solar panels generating more than 1.78 megawatts of power, officials say the project will completely offset electrical consumption of the Public Works building and offset nearly all electric consumption at City Hall.
The project also includes over 3,000 LED light upgrades across 14 sites, improving downtown pedestrian lighting in five key areas to increase safety and security while improving energy efficiency.
Significant improvements to HVAC systems in four historical fieldhouses located at Pendora, Keffer, Schlegel, and Baer Parks will also be made.
Officials say the total project cost of $17.9 million will be funded in large part via anticipated savings of $13.3 million over two decades, bringing the cost to the City of Reading to $4.6 million.