As part of its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2042, Penn has cultivated a power purchase agreement (PPA) with energy company AES to develop solar arrays that supply the equivalent of most campus and health system electricity needs. Through this partnership, AES funds related educational efforts via a Penn Climate–run grant program.

The PPA Renewable Energy Research Program supports education and training on the technical, operational, and economic aspects of renewable energy and storage. All Penn faculty and students may apply. Faculty can request support for student projects, and students may seek funding for capstones, theses, internships, or fellowships. Projects may receive up to $15,000.

Particular consideration will be given to proposals that: 

• Foster the next generation of climate leadership. 
• Integrate and bolster interdisciplinary work, especially involving new collaborations.  
• Involve hands-on research or experiential learning connected to the solar field site in central Pennsylvania. 
• Will generate new knowledge and outline a plan to translate it for on-the-ground impact. 

Timeline

• March 30, 2026: Deadline to submit proposals through InfoReady. Only applications submitted by InfoReady will be reviewed. 
• April 29, 2026: Anticipated release of final responses. 

Learn more about application instructions and timelines for this funding opportunity: https://upenn.infoready4.com/#freeformCompetitionDetail/2007185. 

Find out about past projects: https://environment.upenn.edu/ppa-renewable-energy-research-program#ppaprojects.