Stefano, Rigby Announce $9.9 million in PENNVEST Funding for Windber Area Cost-Saving Energy Project

January 21, 2026

HARRISBURG – The Windber Area Authority, which serves Cambria and Somerset counties, was awarded a nearly $10 million low-interest loan today by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST) for energy upgrades to the Ingleside Sewage Treatment Plant in Richland Township, Cambria County, according to Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) and Rep. Jim Rigby (R-Cambria/Somerset).

“Reliable infrastructure is the backbone of every community,” Stefano said. “This investment will allow the plant to meet growing demand while improving efficiency and, most importantly, protecting public health. I’m proud to support projects that strengthen essential services for families and businesses, especially in Somerset County and the surrounding areas.”

The project includes the construction of a 3.83-megawatt-hour solar energy system to account for the current peak monthly usage, plus the projected energy usage for the treatment plant’s Autothermal Thermophilic Aerobic Digestion project, which is currently under construction.

“The system serves six municipalities and is in desperate need of being upgraded to meet increased demand,” Rigby said. “I’m happy to support this funding and applaud the authority’s board for taking the initiative to apply for assistance with bringing its infrastructure up to date.”

The solar energy system consists of 5,078 fixed-tilt solar panels and associated equipment in an open field with the existing fence in the northeast corner of the treatment plant site.

PENNVEST is a financing authority that provides low-cost financial assistance to address water, wastewater, stormwater and non-point source pollution problems that impact public health, safety, the environment, regulatory compliance and economic development.

Representative Jim Rigby
71st Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Scott B. Little
717.260.6137 (office), 717.497.5967 (cell)
Slittle@pahousegop.com

Senator Pat Stefano
32nd Legislative District
Pennsylvania State Senate