The Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau (ANFVB) announced that it has secured a $20,000 grant from the West Penn Energy Fund (WPEF) to power the Sustainable Security & 24/7 Access Pilot for the “Trolls in the Forest” public‑art installation. The grant will fund three self‑contained solar power stations that will provide high‑efficiency LED lighting and remote surveillance for the project’s three locations in McKean County: the borough of Kane, the city of Bradford, and the Westline area within the Allegheny National Forest.
Off‑grid solar solution
Each solar station will operate independently of the local utility grid, using photovoltaic panels, battery storage and Starlink/LTE connectivity to run LED security lights and cameras around the wooden troll sculptures. By avoiding trenching or new power lines, the system preserves the forest’s natural landscape while ensuring 24‑hour visitor access and protection of the artwork.
Project timeline and expected impact
Construction of the three monumental troll sculptures, hand‑built from 100% recycled and reclaimed materials by Danish artist Thomas Dambo and local volunteers, is slated to begin in September 2027. Completion is projected for October 2027. Once open, the installation is expected to draw more than 100,000 visitors annually to the West Penn Power service territory, providing a significant boost to regional tourism and local businesses.
Comments from local leaders
“As we prepare to welcome visitors from across the country to experience Thomas Dambo’s first permanent installation in Pennsylvania, ensuring public safety and protecting these sculptures is essential,” said Rustin Lippincott, Executive Director of the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau. “Utilizing off‑grid solar technology allows us to provide illumination and security across our sites in Kane, Bradford, and Westline without trenching through the forest or drawing power from the electrical grid. We are deeply grateful to the West Penn Energy Fund for investing in this sustainable infrastructure.”
Joel Morrison, Fund Administrator for WPEF, added, “WPEF is committed to supporting projects that create lasting benefits for communities while advancing energy efficiency and sustainability. The Trolls in the Forest project brings a creative approach to off‑grid solar deployment, protecting a significant community asset, enhancing public safety, and demonstrating zero‑load clean energy technologies within the West Penn Power service territory.”
About the partners
The Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau serves as the official destination‑marketing organization for McKean County, promoting outdoor recreation, travel and cultural tourism while championing sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship throughout the forest region.
The West Penn Energy Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that funds transformational projects focused on sustainable energy technologies, energy efficiency and conservation measures, and initiatives that foster economic development and environmental betterment across the West Penn Power service area.
Looking ahead
The solar‑powered security pilot demonstrates how clean‑energy solutions can address infrastructure challenges for remote recreational sites. By showcasing a successful off‑grid model, the project may inspire similar installations in other Pennsylvania parks and rural communities, further strengthening the state’s commitment to renewable energy and tourism development.
Original reporting: WESB (Bradford) — read the source article.
