Commerce awards $35.4M in energy infrastructure grants

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Department of Commerce announced Wednesday it awarded $35.4 million in grants to local, state and tribal governments and nonprofits to plan and install solar and battery backup power systems at community buildings

“Power outages impact everyone differently — some of our most vulnerable community members face significant risks when the power goes out,” said Commerce Director Mike Fong. “These investments in solar power with battery backup systems will help people receive the services they need most — whether that’s heating or cooling, medical care, or keeping devices charged so they can communicate and stay informed.”

The projects will provide backup power for critical community needs during power outages, including supporting emergency services, healthcare and shelters, the announcement said. Outside of power outages, the systems will produce electricity that will save energy costs for the facility operators, and the systems may also reduce strain on the grid when usage is high.

“Okanagan County is highly prone to wildfires, smoke and heat events, flooding, and other natural disasters that have had an increasing impact on our rural power grid with the effects of climate change,” said Kevan Coffey, medical director for Family Health Centers in Okanagan. “We currently have no backup power at our Omak Clinic, the largest clinic in our system. The ability to maintain clinic operations during power outages will reduce barriers for our patient population, allowing patients to keep previously scheduled appointments, seek urgent healthcare and fill prescriptions.”

According to the announcement, some of the grants announced Wednesday will support planning and development work, such as feasibility studies, to prepare organizations to complete solar and battery storage projects in the future.