Solar power on U.S. K-12 schools more than quadrupled in 10 years

Today, at least one in nine students in the country attend a K-12 school powered by solar energy. Read this report to learn more about the nation’s progress toward a brighter future with our schools powered by 100% clean energy.

Jump to:

Download resource

On the Path to a Brighter Future

Today, at least one in nine students in the country attend a K-12 school powered by solar energy. Schools across the country are rapidly switching to solar power for the economic, educational, and community benefits–and federal funds and incentives are making it even more affordable to go solar. Read this report to learn more about the nation’s progress toward a brighter future with our schools powered by 100% clean energy.

State of Solar Adoption at U.S. K-12 Schools

6Million
Nearly9000
C02
System Size
Cumulative Solar Capacity 1
  • STATISTICS CALCULATED AT THE START OF 2024

Key Findings

Today, 1 in 9 students attend a solar-powered school

Two-year growth of solar at schools

More than 800 K-12 schools added new solar arrays in 2022-2023. That is the equivalent of more than one school going solar every day for the last two years! 

Ten-year growth of solar at schools

Over the last ten years, the amount of solar capacity at K-12 schools has more than quadrupled.

Growth in cumulative solar capacity

Mapping the Solar Movement

School

Find a solar school near you and learn more about the solar installation

State

View state rankings for school solar capacity and number of solar schools

  • DATA CUMULATIVE THROUGH THE END OF 2023
View Interactive Map
We are working to bring the benefits of solar energy to all school communities statewide. Help us keep our map updated by letting us know about successful solar projects at your school.
Add my school to the map

School Success Stories

Solar Powered School District Shines Bright in West Virginia’s Coal Country

Wayne County School District in West Virginia is leading the way in solar adoption among the state’s K-12 schools, partnering with a local solar developer to install a 5 MW solar project across 21 sites. This initiative, the largest of its kind in the state, will not only save the district up to $6.5 million over 25 years but also provide hands-on educational opportunities for students, integrating real-world learning into the curriculum and supporting the local economy.
Read more

Community Solar Offers Financial Lifeline to School Families in Need

Denver Public Schools is providing local low-income families free access to solar energy, reducing electricity costs, and offering educational opportunities. This initiative not only benefits the environment but also strengthens community ties and supports climate justice, making solar power more accessible to underserved populations.

Read more

A Campus Where the School Building is a Teacher

Tar Heel School in Bladen County, North Carolina, stands out as a school that is designed to generate more electricity than it consumes, thanks to its innovative design featuring energy efficiency, solar, and geothermal systems. This cutting-edge facility not only reduces environmental impact but also serves as a teaching tool, inspiring students and the community about clean energy and future career pathways.

Read more

North Carolina County Blazes a Path to 100% Clean Energy

Buncombe County, North Carolina, is on track to be powered by 100% renewable energy by 2042, leading the state with its ambitious solar initiatives. With 16 solar-powered schools and 47 county buildings adopting solar arrays, Buncombe County is generating seven megawatts of rooftop solar, creating local jobs, and achieving energy independence. This effort, driven by a commitment to sustainability, is supported by federal incentives and serves as a model for other communities aiming for a clean energy future.

Read more

Related Posts