Construction of the solar array on Orting Veterans Village’s 35 tiny homes and community center was completed in July of this year.  As an integral community resource for the unhoused in Pierce County, Orting Veterans Village is an ideal location for hosting solar. The Orting Veterans Village solar project includes 4 to 8 solar panels across each of the thirty five tiny homes, depending on their orientation to the sun, and 103 panels on the community building (a total of 315 panels). MAD Energy NW designed and installed the 120 kilowatt system.

The inauguration of the West Mason Fire Solar Project was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 14, 2024. This installation is set to lower the District's energy costs, projecting savings of over $215,159 in the next forty years. It will also diminish West Mason Fire's carbon footprint by 32,000 pounds of CO2 emissions annually, which is comparable to planting 262 trees each year or refraining from driving 40,000 miles. The financial benefits from the solar project will enhance the services provided by West Mason Fire and the district, allowing for greater staff support and other community services.

Last September, Brighton Senior Housing hosted an event to celebrate the completion of a 100-kilowatt solar project to produce energy on top of the building. The installation generates renewable energy for this community in the Rainier Valley neighborhood of Seattle. The net metering credits Brighton receives from the project help lower operating costs.

Photo credit: Highline High School

On June 8, 2023, the Highline High School’s Environmental Club leaders invited funders, mentors and supporters to mark the installation of a 285-panel, 100-kilowatt solar panel system to produce energy on top of the new school. Over 30 years the solar system is projected to save more than $340,000 in energy costs.

Funded in part by an Evergreen Options grant in partnership with Tacoma Power, a new solar installation at the Oasis of Hope Center in Tacoma was celebrated with a ribbon cutting. The Oasis of Hope Center has a 31.68 kW system, which will generate an estimated 33,000 kWh annually. Thanks to the cost savings from lower energy bills, the center will have more funds available for youth services.