On April 1, in partnership with PennTAP, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) awarded nearly $5 million in grants to 14 manufacturing projects across nine Pennsylvania counties that focus on reducing industrial emissions and improving air quality as part of the Reducing Industrial Sector Emissions in Pennsylvania (RISE PA) Small-scale Award Track (SAT) grant program.

In the first year of implementation, the projects are expected to cut approximately 5,055.3 metric tons of greenhouse gases and save companies an estimated $572,751.

“The estimated savings in year one for these projects is just the tip of the iceberg,” according to PennTAP Director Tanna Pugh. “Awardees can expect to see annual savings, which is significant as energy costs continue to increase. In addition to the environmental benefits, the program offers tremendous economic benefits for small manufacturers.”

Alanna Colvin, Associate Director of PennTAP further explained that several projects are projected to reduce operations costs in other areas as well. “In one instance, a project will significantly reduce emissions by eliminating a key refrigerant in the company’s cooling infrastructure. Including the reduced refrigerant costs, their expected annual savings will be significantly more.”

Cost savings can help manufacturers invest in other priority upgrades, workforce development, and new talent. “In addition to eliminating greenhouse gas emissions, RISE PA is designed to increase Pennsylvania’s manufacturing competitiveness and help create and retain jobs. We are excited to see the statewide impact of these projects and for future funding rounds,” Pugh said.

Click here to see the list of manufacturers that have been awarded the first round of RISE PA SAT grants.

Round 3 closed on April 15 and Round 4 is expected to open on May 15. Additional rounds are planned through 2029. To discuss your eligibility and learn more, connect with PennTAP’s RISE PA team.

Through the RISE PA grant program, PennTAP secured $40 million dedicated to helping small and mid-sized Pennsylvania manufacturers reduce energy use, lower costs and emissions, and invest in long-term sustainability.