Carlisle, PA – It takes a lot of resources to execute events at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and Carlisle Expo Center. There’s manpower, wind power, horsepower, and ALL NEW for 2025, solar power. Carlisle Events, in partnership with the USDA and Solar Renewable Energy of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania is proud to announce the installation and implementation of solar panels and solar power both at the fairgrounds and the neighboring Carlisle Expo Center.
The project was years in the making and was made possible by way of a grant from the USDA and their Rural Energy for America Program or REAP. REAP helps farmers, ranchers, and rural small business owners invest in renewable energy through renewable energy and energy efficiency loans and grants, energy audits, and renewable energy development grants. Funds may also be used for the purchase, installation, and construction of energy efficiency improvements. It’s these improvements that will adorn the two facilities in the coming months.
Behind-the-scenes conversations, logistics, and planning had been ongoing throughout 2023 with the ultimate green light coming in December. While the visible core of the work won’t begin until the middle of 2024, the project is expected to be completed by the end of the year and will offer no impact on the overall guest experience during events. Panels will adorn the roof of the grandstand at the fairgrounds, while also occupying space on the roof of the expo center.
This project in Carlisle isn’t the first for the region, but it’s the first known solar-powered option for an automotive events producer such as Carlisle Events. Additional solar support in central Pennsylvania can be found adjacent to the GIANT/Ahold corporate offices, Carlisle Area School District, Freysinger Auto Group in Harrisburg, and Tr�� Independent Brewery in Hershey. In each instance, beyond the financial savings that solar generates, it also offers tremendous benefits to the health and well-being of the community. Further, it cements the Miller family’s commitment to their business and facility now and going forward. This ensures that Carlisle and the fairgrounds are THE HOME for collector car lovers from around the world for years to come. Finally, according to the Solar Renewable Energy team, at least 4% of Pennsylvania is solar-powered, making Carlisle Events the latest state entity to go solar.
“The Rural Energy for America Program or REAP is bringing rural small businesses and farmers financial support to make their energy-efficient projects a reality across Pennsylvania,” State Director for USDA Rural Development Bob Morgan said. “Since 2021, we have invested more than $25 million in energy efficiency projects in Pennsylvania. We are thrilled to be able to bring these resources to the Carlisle Fairgrounds.”
“It’s been great to work with the Carlisle Fairgrounds to show the public how effective solar can be in reducing energy expenses and shielding itself from future energy inflation by going solar,” said Seth Berry of Solar Renewable Energy. “Schools, hospitals, municipalities and businesses can all follow the example that the fairgrounds is setting by protecting the environment while it saves significant money by going solar.”
“We are excited to make this solar transition,” noted Carlisle Events co-owners Bill Miller and Lance Miller (no relation). “This investment will not only help sustain our own operations with renewable energy but will allow Carlisle Events to contribute additional sustainable energy back into the community and its power grid,” added Bill and Lance. “We can’t thank the USDA enough for their belief and support of this venture and for the team at Solar Renewable Energy for their installation efforts. This path forward is great for everyone involved and we look forward to the completion of the project.”
The 2024 Carlisle-based schedule commences April 17 with Spring Carlisle driven by Hemmings. Gates open for all events at 7 AM, with kids 12 and under admitted FREE. Information on the full Carlisle 50th season, how to become a vendor, register for the Showfield/Fun Field, apply for display consideration, or simply purchase discounted spectator admission tickets can be found at CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855.
