Projects Under Development
There are many promising technologies and strategies being explored that can meaningfully contribute to our region’s decarbonization success. The following regional entities have recently received support to expand activities that can support a regional decarbonization strategy. Southwestern Pennsylvania’s spirit of innovation and background in research is laying the foundation for cross-sector partnerships that can work toward the common purpose of decarbonization.
Regional Institutions:
Riverside Center for Innovation
Topic: Brownfield redevelopment and community revitalization
Overview: Riverside Center for Innovation received funding to remediate environmental hazards at an abandoned structure in Perry South near Pittsburgh where there is a vision to build a daycare center for community families. Funding will be used to address environmental issues so the structure can be rehabilitated. (Local news coverage here)
Amount Funded: $500,000
Learn more about the Brownfields Assessment Grants: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/brownfields-assessment-grants
Westinghouse
Topic: Microreactor Energy Production
Overview: Westinghouse has leased over 87,000 square feet in the region and will invest in the range of $18 million for its new transportable nuclear technology. The facility is expected to employ about 40 people at first with the expectation of 100 to 150 employees. The facility will manufacture heat pipes for microreactors, and no nuclear material will be maintained at the facility.
Amount Funded: $4,981,000
Learn more about microreactors and Westinghouse’s Microreactor Accelerator Hub: https://info.westinghousenuclear.com/news/westinghouse-launches-evinci-microreactor-accelerator-hub
Pittsburgh Gateways Corporation
Topic: Building revitalization and community development
Overview: Pittsburgh Gateways has received funding as part of the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Partnership for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative. Funding will be used to renovate and restore the historic “Jupiter” building in downtown Johnstown, PA. The building is planned to be the new center for advanced manufacturing, engineering, and automation Funding that will support Pitt-Johnstown’s education programming, contribute to workforce development and support the transformation of the region.
Amount Funded: $1,500,000
Learn more about the Pittsburgh Gateways award and the Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization Initiative: https://www.arc.gov/grants-and-opportunities/power/