Port Angeles – The City of Port Angeles began installing a 50kW roof-mounted solar array at the Port Angeles Senior Center on Tuesday, marking what City officials say is “a pivotal moment in the city’s commitment to sustainability and emergency preparedness.”

The solar array has been paired with a 200kWh battery storage system, which is expected to be operational by mid-year, and will provide backup power to the building during outages. It’s designed to supply emergency energy for up to three days in the winter months.

The budgeted investment for the solar project is a little over $1 million, funded through a $450,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce and additional ARPA funds. A federal investment tax credit of $350,000 is also anticipated to further offset costs.

In addition to the solar project, the senior center’s HVAC system has been successfully upgraded, with air now flowing throughout the building. The HVAC project, completed earlier this month, enhances comfort for members and staff while significantly reducing the center’s energy consumption. The total cost of the HVAC upgrade was $1.598 million.

(Photo by Amanda Bacon)