Local tour highlights innovative solar project at Aston’s SunCenter Studios

State Rep. Leanne Krueger and DelCo Council Member Elaine Schaefer join statewide enviro group PennEnvironment for tour of Sun Center Studios to tout the benefits of going solar

Aston, PA – Local officials and residents joined leaders from SunCenter Studios and the nonprofit environmental group PennEnvironment for an informative tour of the studio’s innovative solar project. The tour was held to educate Aston residents about the benefits of solar energy and how they can go solar if interested.

State Rep. Leanne Krueger joins PennEnvironment and Sun Center Studios for a tour of the film studio’s solar arrayPhoto by TPIN | TPIN

“There’s never been a better time for businesses to use the power of the sun to electrify their work,” said Hanna Felber, organizer for PennEnvironment. “Plentiful sunshine and generous solar incentives are here. Now more businesses in Pennsylvania just need to take advantage of them.” 

In 2011, SunCenter Studios installed a 216 kW rooftop solar array large enough to offset 25% of its annual electricity usage. This is not only saving the studio money on its utility bills, but the array also eliminates approximately 135 tons of carbon emissions annually. 

We’re thrilled to be a part of environmental awareness, and promote sustainable power and alternatives to fossil fuels,” said Doug Rotwitt from SunCenter Studios. “We’re happy to spread awareness of it and let people know that it is a worthwhile investment, not only for the environment, but especially for the residential level, for your pocketbook.”

The solar array has delivered significant savings to SunCenter Studios on their electricity bills, saving the studio $250,000 in the 15 years that the panels have been up. Other businesses that want to follow suit have the added benefit of solar energy tax credits that can dramatically lower the price tag for going solar.

“Solar power lowers energy costs for consumers and businesses, creates good-paying local jobs, and combats climate change,” said Pennsylvania State Rep. Leanne Krueger. “SunCenter Studios is ahead of the curve in recognizing the benefits of solar energy for economic growth and environmental stewardship. Their efforts show the path for Delco and the state to be a leader in empowering widespread community solar access, and I continue to work in the legislature to make the solar energy sector profitable for our economy and an important part of the energy portfolio to protect our environment.”

Rep. Leanne Krueger, Delaware County Councilmember Elaine Schaefer, and local residents join PennEnvironment for a tour of Sun Center Studio’s solar arrayPhoto by TPIN | TPIN

Solar energy is abundant, efficient and increasingly affordable, and businesses are often great candidates for rooftop solar panels. Harnessing more energy from the sun would mean cleaner air, a more stable climate, less strain on natural resources, and an energy source we can depend on to be virtually pollution-free for as long as we can imagine. Plus, going solar increases energy independence and reliability and allows businesses to save a ton of money on their utility bills.

“Making the switch to solar isn’t just a smart operational decision—it’s a bold and values-driven commitment to cleaner air, lower emissions, and a healthier future for all of us,” stated Delaware County Councilmember Elaine Schaefer. “This kind of leadership sets the standard for what’s possible in Delaware County and beyond.”

Right now, Pennsylvania is currently ranked 26th in the nation for solar power. SunCenter Studio leaders hope that their array can inspire other businesses across Pennsylvania to follow their lead, choose clean energy, and help Pennsylvania become a solar leader.

“More solar energy means cleaner air, less climate pollution, and real savings for residents and businesses on their utility bills,” said Schaefer. “That’s why Delaware County is committed to accelerating the clean energy transition.”

PennEnvironment is holding events like this throughout the state to help spread the word about the benefits of going solar so that more houses of worship, nonprofits, businesses, and individuals can invest in a clean energy future too.