Pittsburgh Water Plans First Solar Project to Reduce Energy Costs and Environmental Impact

Board action clears the way for Pittsburgh Water to pursue financing for solar installation at the Water Treatment Plant.
Press Release Pittsburgh Water Plans First Solar Project to Reduce Energy Costs & Environmental Impact - a man seen adjusting a solar panel

September 30, 2026

PITTSBURGH, PA - Pittsburgh Water is planning its first solar energy project, bringing clean energy to the Water Treatment Plant while helping protect customers from rising electricity costs.

Following action by the Pittsburgh Water Board of Directors, the utility will pursue PENNVEST financing for the project, which would install solar panels on two buildings at the plant.

The panels are expected to generate about 607,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year – roughly the amount of electricity used by 55 homes annually. 

“This project allows us to make progress on two priorities at once – reducing our environmental impact and managing the rising cost of electricity,” said Pittsburgh Water CEO Will Pickering. “Generating some of our own clean energy is a practical investment in a more sustainable and affordable water system for our customers.”

The largest solar installation would be located on the Filtration Building and is expected to supply about 9 percent of the electricity used at that building.

The project is currently estimated at $1.24 million. Pittsburgh Water plans to pursue low-interest financing including PENNVEST, and federal tax incentives to reduce the cost of the Project and the time required for it to pay for itself.

The project is expected to deliver long-term savings. Assuming PENNVEST financing and a 30 percent federal tax credit, Pittsburgh Water estimates the project would pay for itself in about ten years. Over the life of the project, the financial analysis estimates approximately $1.57 million in savings.

Pittsburgh Water has worked with the Pennsylvania Solar Center to evaluate the project and identify available financing incentives.

“Pittsburgh Water is showing how solar can make public infrastructure both more sustainable and more resilient to rising energy costs,” said Ameila Eggan, Assistant Director of the Pennsylvania Solar Center. “This project turns available rooftop space into a source of clean energy while creating long-term value for customers.”

If financing is secured, construction could begin by summer 2027.