Skip To Main Content

Desktop Search Container

Our Schools

Language

Sticky Right Buttons

Landing Nav

Breadcrumb

Woodland Elementary School Solar Grant Awarded

Woodland Elementary School

We are thrilled to announce that Woodland Elementary School received a substantial solar grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce Energy Division through the Community Decarbonization Grants. This $1.7M grant will enable the installation of a 221.4 kW solar array on the school's rooftop. 

This exciting project reflects the Puyallup School District's ongoing sustainability and energy efficiency commitment. The diligent efforts of our Capital Projects team in pursuing these grants highlight our dedication to enhancing educational opportunities and infrastructure within our school district. Despite a competitive grant funding landscape, the team remains committed to securing funding to benefit our students, educators, and the broader community. 

Project Highlights: 

  • Clean Energy Production: The solar array will generate approximately 27 percent of Woodland Elementary's annual electricity usage, significantly reducing the school's reliance on non-renewable energy sources. 
  • Community and Grid Benefits: The system is expected to reduce electrical demand by 263,100 kWh annually, enhancing grid resilience and providing more stable power to the surrounding electrically disadvantaged neighborhoods. 
  • Financial Savings: Over its 20-year lifespan, the solar array will save the district an estimated $540,000 in energy and demand charges. The district will reinvest these savings into the district's educational programs and critical infrastructure projects. 

Educational and Environmental Impact: 

  • Student Engagement: The project will serve as a hands-on learning tool for students, integrating renewable energy education into the curriculum and raising awareness about environmental sustainability. 
  • Carbon Footprint Reduction: By offsetting 184 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, the solar array contributes to the state's goals for reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy. 

Technical and Financial Details: 

  • Grant and Budget: The district will match $86,346 to the grant request, leveraging this support to maximize the benefits for our community without overextending our limited budget. 
  • Partnership: McKinstry, our PowerED partner and a trusted leader in energy and construction, will oversee the project from design through to completion, ensuring safety, quality, and minimal disruption to the school's daily operations. 

This solar initiative at Woodland Elementary is a significant step forward in our mission to provide our students with a safe, supportive, and sustainable learning environment. The Puyallup School District is proud to lead by example and inspire future generations to prioritize clean energy and environmental stewardship. 


 

More school construction news . . .