St. Michael’s Episcopal Mission got a shine up in 2025: 72 new solar panels with battery back-up. The microgrid system will lower their energy bills and keep the church powered for days during power outages, so they can continue to provide essential services to neighbors in need. Spark Northwest assisted the church to secure a grant funded by Washington State’s Climate Commitment Act for $626,100.

Spark Northwest further supported the congregation with energy education events like “Energy Basics: Power Up Your Knowledge.” Inspired by this success, the church imagines future sustainability projects—electric car charging, heat pumps, and other upgrades.

“Now I know there’s actually something going on that’s going to combat all these crazy things happening with climate change.”

—Devante Martinez, 23, Workshop Attendee