Wisconsin · Private Foundation

Solar on Schools (Renew Wisconsin)

Eligibility

Wisconsin K-12 public and private schools interested in receiving donated solar arrays for their building or grounds. Schools must be willing to use the solar installation as an educational tool and participate in program reporting.

Program Goals

Renew Wisconsin's Solar on Schools program donates solar panel arrays to Wisconsin schools, combining clean energy generation with classroom learning opportunities. Beyond reducing energy costs, the installations serve as living labs where students study renewable energy, data monitoring, and sustainability — directly connecting curriculum to real infrastructure on their campus.

Learn more at renewwisconsin.org/solar-on-schools

Application

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Schools apply through the Renew Wisconsin website. The application asks about building ownership, roof condition, electrical infrastructure, and the school's interest in using the installation educationally. Acceptance depends on site suitability and available program capacity.

Cycle Notes

Rolling applications — no fixed deadline. Schools are added as sites become available and as Renew Wisconsin secures donated systems and installation capacity. Accepted schools work with Renew Wisconsin on site assessment and installation logistics.

Award Amount

Donated solar array — value varies by system size but can represent $10,000–$50,000+ in equipment and installation depending on school roof size and program capacity. No cash award; the benefit is the donated renewable energy system itself.

Allowable Purchases

This program provides donated infrastructure rather than cash. However, schools with solar installations can use other grant funds for curriculum and technology that extends the educational value of their solar system. Recommended Forward Education products:

• Smart Solar Energy Kit — Directly complements an on-campus solar installation. Students learn how solar cells work, measure output, and connect classroom learning to the real system on their roof.
• Climate Action Kit — Expands on the renewable energy theme with broader climate and environmental systems exploration.
• Coding for Good Kit — Students can build monitoring dashboards and data visualization projects using their school's solar output data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the school own the solar system after installation?
Ownership arrangements vary. Some systems are donated outright; others may involve a hosting agreement. Confirm terms with Renew Wisconsin during the application process.

Is there a cost to the school?
The program aims to provide donated systems at no cost to schools. Site preparation or electrical upgrades required by the school may involve costs — discuss with Renew Wisconsin during assessment.

Can private schools apply?
Yes. Both public and private K-12 schools in Wisconsin are eligible.

How long does the process take from application to installation?
Timelines vary based on site assessment, permitting, and installation scheduling — typically several months to over a year from application to live system.

Can my school use the solar installation data in curriculum?
Yes — and Renew Wisconsin encourages it. Real-time energy production data from your system can be integrated into science, math, and environmental studies classes.