In June we visited our newest community partner, Shark Garden, a wonderful shared garden, teaching and gathering space in Burien, Washington. Spark Northwest helped by securing finishing funds for a microgrid solar system that will generate electricity to help grow and harvest over one ton of produce for the local food bank. The system will also power garden events, such as the recent Solar Punk Festival, which took place earlier this month. We are very inspired by this innovative clean energy project in the heart of a diverse and inclusive community. 

We are THRILLED to report that Spark Northwest was awarded a $100,000 prize from the U.S. Department of Energy to pursue our Advancing Tribal Energy Sovereignty program. This is a brand-new initiative that will provide innovative, hands-on solar education and training in partnership with the Nooksack and Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribes. Focus will be on experiential learning to foster confidence and growth for people for whom renewable energy has been out of reach. Our goal is to identify and mentor future energy champions, so that they will be ready to lead the next phase of developing fundable clean energy projects for their communities, with Spark Northwest providing resources and support as needed.  

Welcome to our newest Kilowatt sponsor! Sunpath Services is a local Oregon solar company with extensive experience helping home, farm and business owners along their solar journey. Thank you Sunpath, for your confidence and investment in Spark Northwest!