Berks County Community Foundation has awarded more than $415,000 in grants to seven organizations and entities to support energy efficiency improvements aimed at reducing utility costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
The foundation announced the distribution of $415,673 in funding on October 30 through its Metropolitan Edison Sustainable Energy Fund. The grants will support projects such as replacing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, converting to energy-efficient LED lighting, and introducing smart technology to improve building operations.
Among the recipients, Berks Catholic High School received $100,000, West Reading Borough was awarded $76,360, and Reading Cable Company received $9,000. Valsage, LLC also received a grant totaling $30,473.
Additional funding was awarded to organizations outside Berks County, including $73,350 to the Greater Easton Development Partnership, $56,545 to Our Town Foundation, and $69,945 to the York County Agricultural Society.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, HVAC systems and lighting account for the two largest sources of electricity consumption in commercial buildings across the United States. Upgrading these systems can significantly reduce energy use, with some improvements resulting in energy savings of up to 80%.
The foundation said the investments are intended to help participating organizations lower long-term operating expenses while reducing their environmental impact.
The Metropolitan Edison Sustainable Energy Fund was established through Berks County Community Foundation to promote sustainable and renewable energy programs and clean-air technologies throughout the region and across Pennsylvania.
Through its annual grantmaking, the fund supports projects that encourage energy conservation, improve efficiency, and advance the use of sustainable technologies.
