PORT ANGELES — The Port Angeles Food Bank is set to embark on a transformative sustainability initiative thanks to the Washington Department of Commerce Community Decarbonization Grant.
The grant, made possible through the Climate Commitment Act (CCA), will provide $321,515.18 to fund the installation of 229 solar panels atop the food bank’s headquarters at 632 N Oakridge Drive in Port Angeles. The panels will be installed on the south facing slope of the roof, covering the length from end to end.
The CCA, a Washington State law established in 2021, aims to curb greenhouse gas emissions through its innovative cap-and-invest program. As part of this initiative, the food bank will initially cover the installation costs, with reimbursement from the state upon completion. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community resilience.
Partnering with local experts at Power Trip Energy of Port Townsend, the Port Angeles Food Bank anticipates beginning the project’s permitting phase immediately. Equipment purchase is slated for autumn, with the full installation expected to conclude by July 2025.
“We are thrilled to have received this funding to install solar panels at the Port Angeles Food Bank,” said Lana Triece, Resource Navigator at the Port Angeles Food Bank. “This project represents a significant step towards sustainability and energy efficiency for our organization. Partnering with Power Trip Energy, a respected local solar energy installer, ensures that we are working with experts who share our commitment to the community and the environment.”
The benefits extend beyond environmental gains. “On average, the Port Angeles Food Bank spends $18,672 each year on energy costs,” said Triece. “After the solar panels are installed, we expect to see a 62 percent decrease, equating to a savings of $11,567 each year. PAFB is excited to be able to redirect this money back into doing what we do best – feeding the community.”
At a time when the community needs are heightened post-pandemic, with rising cost of living and the tapering of government aid, these savings will directly bolster the food bank’s capacity to serve vulnerable populations.
The CCA’s emphasis on environmental justice ensures that initiatives like this prioritize communities disproportionately affected by air pollution and economic disparities. By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, the PAFB hopes to not only mitigate their environmental footprint but to also set a precedent for equitable, sustainable development. “To the community, I say that every step towards sustainable energy makes a difference,” said Triece. “The lasting impact I hope to see is a community that is resilient, self sufficient and commited to protecting our planet.”
Residents of Port Angeles and beyond will have the opportunity to witness the project’s impact firsthand, with community tours planned upon completion. This transparency underscores the food banks commitment to engaging and educating the public on the importance of renewable energy solutions.
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Reporting intern Christopher Urquia is a student at Peninsula College. He can be reached by email at christopher.urquia@peninsuladailynews.com.
