Cameron County Chamber to Launch Solar Project

Cameron County Chamber to Launch Solar Project

 New system to offset more than 100% of the annual energy consumption 

 EMPORIUM, PA - Cameron County Chamber of Commerce is continuing its mission to bring a more sustainable future to the recently opened innovation center with plans for a solar panel installation on the roof of the former Cabin Kitchen Restaurant. The project continues a growing relationship with the West Penn Energy Fund. 

In 2025, West Penn Energy Fund aided in the purchase of innovative kitchen equipment for the new USDA certified kitchen including an induction range and Stirling flash freezer. Induction stoves are highly efficient, around 85-90%, because they use magnetic fields to heat cookware directly, losing very little energy to the surrounding air compared to gas or traditional electric. This direct energy transfer makes them faster, more precise, and more energy- efficient, reducing overall energy costs and heat in the kitchen. Stirling ultracold freezers are highly energy-efficient, utilizing free-piston Stirling engine technology instead of traditional compressors to reduce energy usage by up to 70–75%. They offer significantly lower operational costs, reduced heat rejection, and increased sustainability. 

 This year, West Penn Energy Fund is partnering with Envinity to install a 30.09 kW DC system. The 51 panels will cover most of the main roof of the building. The project is anticipated to offset more than 100% of the annual energy consumption.

 Cameron County Chamber of Commerce executive director Tina Solak says saving monthly on energy costs will ensure the financial stability for which the organization is striving. “The solar and kitchen project provided by West Penn Energy Fund serves as a model for existing businesses on how to gain a financial foothold in an ever-changing economy,” Solak says. 

 Joel Morrison, West Penn Energy Fund Administrator said, “ We wanted Cameron County to be seen as a leader and this solar project coupled with the USDA certified kitchen becomes a competitive edge for local entrepreneurs to introduce new products into the marketplace and the energy savings from the kitchen and the solar array means that the county can put more of its financial resources back into programs that support the community.” 

 About West Penn Energy Fund 

The West Penn Energy Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit seeking transformational projects that will support the deployment of sustainable energy technologies in a manner that will improve the economic and environmental health of communities within the West Penn Power service region. We connect people to great projects.