The University of Pennsylvania has moved one step closer towards its goal of 100% carbon neutrality on campus by 2042, according to Penn’s Division of Facilities and Real Estate Services (FRES). 

In December 2023, Great Cove I and II – two solar facilities constructed in Central Pennsylvania as a result of Penn’s power purchase agreement (PPA) – reached their commercial operation date. As both facilities now begin to generate power, the project will produce enough energy to power 70% of the total electricity demand of Penn's academic campus and the University of Pennsylvania Health System in the Greater Philadelphia area.

“This agreement not only allows the University of Pennsylvania to continue to demonstrate strong leadership on climate action, but it also provides a competitive price on electricity,” said Anne Papageorge, FRES Senior Vice President. “The University first laid out its roadmap to environmental sustainability in 2009, and we’ve accomplished much. This PPA is our most recent example of Penn’s commitment to meeting our climate goals.”

The occasion of these two solar facilities becoming fully operational marks more than three years of partnership, development, and construction between Penn and project partner and owner-operator, AES, since the PPA for the solar power project was signed in February 2020. 

“Great Cove is an excellent example of how AES is innovating with our customers and supporting them on their journey to meet their climate goals,” said Woody Rubin, AES Clean Energy Chief Development Officer. “This facility is the largest solar power project in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and illustrates our commitment to advancing the global renewable energy transition.” 

The agreement (consisting of two contracts) resulted in the construction in Franklin and Fulton Counties of two new solar energy facilities with combined capacity of 220 megawatts, which is projected to produce approximately 450,000 MWh of electricity annually. Penn will purchase all electricity produced at the sites for 25 years at a rate competitive with conventional electricity prices. 

The project is also hosting a research study onsite in partnership with Penn's Environmental Innovations Initiative, which could offer the industry insight on best practices for soil health management on operational solar projects.

A ceremonial event acknowledging this milestone is planned for Spring 2024 onsite at Penn’s West Philadelphia campus.