WRI receives solar power grant from Washington State Department of Commerce

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Commerce has announced 38 grants totaling $36.6 million to support the planning, design and implementation of clean energy across the state. Included was a $156,300 grant for rooftop solar power and a backup battery at the Wenatchee River Institute (WRI).

The solar panels are slated to be installed on the roof of WRI’s Red Barn by fall of this year. According to WRI Executive Director Canuche Terranella, the organization has a goal of turning the Red Barn into a “resiliency hub,” in which the building could provide off-the-grid power in the event of a natural disaster. 

Additionally, Terranella hopes the Red Barn’s solar power will “be an example to our community that solar can work in eastern Washington.” To WRI, the solar panels are an opportunity to diversify its energy resources as incoming data centers pose an increase in hydropower demand.

“It seems amazing to be able to generate energy for our campus, on our campus, without generating carbon emissions,” said WRI Executive Director Canuche Terranella.

The Commerce’s Clean Energy Community Grants program aims to support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while delivering meaningful benefits to tribes, overburdened communities and vulnerable populations in Washington.

“These projects strengthen energy resilience where it’s needed most,” said Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn, in a press release. “Investing in local clean energy solutions helps communities stay safe, connected, and prepared for the future.”

Funding for solar power projects also included a $1.3 million award to install a solar array with a battery backup for the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community’s IT/Medical Building in La Conner. Additionally, Yakima Neighborhood Health Services will utilize almost $130,000 to install solar power and battery storage for a permanent supportive housing project that will serve homeless families and young adults with disabilities.

“Any resulting savings will be used to provide additional services for our clients and patients, the majority of whom have incomes at or below the poverty level,” said Rhonda Hauff, COO and Deputy CEO for Yakima Neighborhood Health Services, in a press release.

This is the first round of awards from the new Clean Energy Community Grants program, funded by Washington’s Climate Commitment Act. Other projects include clean energy technologies such as carbon capture, ground source heat pumps, microgrids, and more. Approximately $5 million in additional grants are expected to be awarded later this spring.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media