Community Resilience to Climate Effects
In WA state, the Sphere team takes a grassroots approach, partnering directly with members of traditionally underserved communities, empowering them to adopt solar and experience the health and financial benefits of a clean, renewable source of electricity.
Funded with grant support, these communities have been able to redirect the substantial savings on electricity bills to essential programs and services. In addition to assuming greater agency on their journey to climate resilience, community members learn about career opportunities in the growing clean energy sector. The collective impact of these projects include:
- 350+ KW installed
- Over $40,000 in electricity savings every year
- More than 100 metric tons of carbon avoided annually*
- Enough electricity to power 30+ homes annually*
*Source: U.S. EPA Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator, U.S. Department of Energy NREL PV watts calculator
Check out some of the communities now benefiting from solar power…
White Center Food Bank
White Center Food Bank distributes over one million pounds of food a year to thousands of people facing difficult economic conditions. Current programs include senior food delivery, a mobile food bank as well as a baby pantry for formula. Installed in 2024, the 55 kW system on the roof of the White Center Food Bank produces over 72,000 kWh of electricity a year, reducing operating costs by around $8,000, which frees up funds to fulfill their mission of minimizing hunger while nurturing self-reliance.
Oasis of Hope Community Center
Funded by a grant from Tacoma Power, the 32 kW PV system will offset electricity costs for a community center that serves primarily BIPOC residents in an economically disadvantaged neighborhood.
Suquamish Tribe Family and Friends Center
The Suquamish Tribe has taken decisive action to address the global climate crisis with the installation of a 68-panel solar array atop its fitness center and youth activity building. The 32.6 kW system produces about 30,000 kWh of clean, zero-emissions electricity annually – equivalent to powering three average-sized homes. The cost savings from the significantly lower electric bill is passed on to services benefiting the Suquamish community.
Shark Garden
Shark Garden is a nonprofit, community learning space in Burien that grows over 2,000 pounds of produce annually for donation to local food banks. The 1.6 acre garden also features a community p-patch serving over 70 local families and free classes to learn about organic gardening and cooking traditions from around the world. Made possible by a grant from the Port of Seattle, the solar and battery system serves as a microgrid supporting the electricity needs of the garden.
El Centro Skate Rink
Located in Federal Way, El Centro Skate Rink is a popular hub for family-friendly gatherings in the community, drawing roller skaters of diverse backgrounds. Funded by a grant from Puget Sound Energy, the 14 kW solar array has reduced the electricity bill substantially, sustaining an affordable form of fun and exercise for families to enjoy.
More About Community-Led Solar Projects On Our Blog
Find out more about our work at the intersection of equity and the environment, empowering communities in economically-challenged areas to become leaders of their own clean energy solutions.
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