energy

McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, has taken strides to improve energy efficiency within the community. Local residential and commercial buildings are increasingly adopting LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances, spurred by incentives such as tax credits and rebate programs offered by the state and utility companies. Solar panel installations have seen a gradual rise, supported by Pennsylvania's net metering policies and the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), allowing homeowners and businesses to offset their electricity costs. To further bolster energy conservation, a number of energy audits have been carried out by local energy service companies, leading to retrofitting and insulation upgrades in older buildings. McKees Rocks also benefits from the statewide Act 129 Energy Efficiency and Conservation program, which encourages electric utilities to help consumers reduce their energy usage. However, there is still significant potential for growth in renewable energy adoption within the community, particularly regarding wind and geothermal energy sources.

water

Water conservation and efficiency in McKees Rocks are important community initiatives, considering the region's emphasis on maintaining the quality of its waterways, including the Ohio River. The local government encourages the installation of low-flow fixtures in homes and businesses to minimize water usage. There are programs in place to detect and repair leaks in the public water supply system, reducing water loss. Rain barrels and green infrastructure are promoted among residents to manage stormwater runoff and protect water quality. Additionally, wastewater treatment facilities have been upgraded to improve efficiency and reduce the environmental impact. Public education campaigns on water conservation have been implemented, but continuous efforts are required to increase community engagement. The community is also examining the use of greywater systems and is improving its water metering to encourage responsible water consumption.

transportation

Transportation in McKees Rocks reflects a mix of traditional and emerging efficiency trends. The community is served by the Port Authority of Allegheny County, providing bus services that connect residents to Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. Efforts to enhance public transportation efficiency include the adoption of clean-diesel and hybrid buses. There is also a push for bike-friendly infrastructure, with plans to expand bike lanes and trails, encouraging non-motorized transport. Carpooling is facilitated through regional ride-share programs, reducing the number of vehicles on the road. However, traffic congestion remains an issue, particularly during peak hours, highlighting the need for improved traffic management systems and greater public transit utilization. While electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are still relatively scarce in McKees Rocks, there is growing interest in EV adoption, supported by state incentives aiming to increase the number of charging stations and make electric transportation more accessible.

waste

Waste management in McKees Rocks encompasses both residential and commercial efforts aimed at reducing, reusing, and recycling materials. The community has a robust curbside recycling program that accepts a variety of materials, including paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, and metals. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection supports recycling efforts through grants and resources, which has encouraged local businesses to participate in waste reduction programs. Electronic waste recycling is available, preventing harmful substances from entering landfills. McKees Rocks also participates in regional hazardous waste collection events to safely dispose of items like batteries, paint, and chemicals. Composting is another area of focus, with local initiatives promoting the practice to reduce organic waste and improve soil health. Despite these efforts, McKees Rocks faces challenges in waste management, such as limited participation in recycling programs and the absence of a comprehensive municipal composting system.