LEWISBERRY, PA — The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) celebrated a significant achievement on Wednesday, April 23, with the unveiling of its 30th solar array installation at Gifford Pinchot State Park in York County. This milestone underscores three decades of DCNR’s dedication to sustainability and clean energy leadership.
The dual solar arrays installed at Gifford Pinchot State Park generate enough energy to power the park’s operations, positioning it as a net-zero energy facility. The 342-kW array at the Quaker Race Day Use Area not only produces renewable energy but also offers shaded parking and picnic areas. Along with a 410-kW array near the park’s sewage treatment plant, these initiatives save taxpayers over $100,000 annually and reduce carbon emissions by more than 163 metric tons per year.
“This project uses clean energy from the sun and provides shade for cars in the parking area, modeling a practical way we can take climate action and serve visitors,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “For 30 years, DCNR has been managing Pennsylvania’s natural resources with sustainability at the forefront. With leadership from Governor Shapiro, we continue to focus on the stewardship that strengthens communities and enhances our quality of life.”
The project reflects broader conservation efforts, including stormwater management upgrades, rainwater collection systems, lakeside buffers, and the use of native vegetation to improve ecological resilience. These advancements directly support Governor Josh Shapiro’s PA PULSE initiative, which aims to power 50 percent of state government operations with renewable energy by 2026.
DCNR has been a leader in clean energy adoption, signing a Guaranteed Energy Savings Act (GESA) contract with the Harrisburg-based McClure Company last year. The contract supports energy efficiency improvements across 38 state parks and five forest districts, targeting annual emissions reductions of 1,900 tons and projected cost savings of over $40 million across 20 years.
Looking ahead, DCNR plans to expand its clean energy footprint further. Initiatives include additional solar installations, electric vehicle charging stations, and adoption of high-performance building standards. During its 30th anniversary celebration in 2025, the agency will continue highlighting the progress made in preserving the state’s 124 parks and 2.2 million acres of forests.
Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation President Marci Mowery praised the initiative, stating, “Making conscious investments of this type ensure our parks and forests will remain healthy, safe places to visit for present and future generations.”
Through its ongoing efforts, DCNR continues to position Pennsylvania as a national renewable energy leader, while emphasizing long-term environmental stewardship and energy savings for the Commonwealth.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.