City of Ellensburg

In partnership with BEF, Ellensburg  installed the first “community solar” project in the nation in 2006. The unique financial model designed by the City allows local individuals and businesses to participate directly in a solar-electric project, without having to lift a finger (except to write a check, perhaps).

The striking 57 kW solar-electric system sits just off of Highway 90 in Ellensburg, and piques the interest of nearly every passing driver. It also may represent the future of renewable energy project finance in the United States. The groundbreaking project allows local individuals and businesses to make essential financial contributions to the project. In return, these contributors receive direct credits on their electricity bills for the green power produced by the system. This “virtual net metering” arrangement produces a variety of efficiencies. The scale benefits that result from this financial model significantly reduce the cost of solar electricity. Just as importantly, because the City organizes the financial and technical details of project installation and maintenance, participation does not place an undue burden on the local citizens.

Sponsored Projects:

Ellensburg Community Renewable Park

Location:
Ellensburg, WA
Technology Type:
PV System Size:
110.50 - kilowatts

In partnership with BEF, Ellensburg has installed the first “community solar” project in the nation. The striking 100+ kW solar-electric system sits just off of Highway 90 in Ellensburg, and piques the interest of nearly every passing driver.

The groundbreaking project allows local individuals and businesses to make essential financial contributions to the project. In return, these contributors receive direct credits on their electricity bills for the green power produced by the system. Because of strong community support, the city expanded the system from 36 kW to 57 kW in December... Read full project narrative >>

Ellensburg High School

Location:
Ellensburg, WA
Grade Level:
9-12

Renewable Classroom projects are designed to build a dedicated community of renewable energy educators within a single school or district, led by a designated “Teacher Champion.” In 2008, educators within Ellensburg High School received a customized renewable energy teacher training, hands-on science kit materials to augment the school's existing curricula and complete access to the resources available on the Solar4RSchools.org website.  Read full project narrative >>

Lincoln Elementary

Location:
Ellensburg, WA
Grade Level:
K-5
Renewable Classroom projects are designed to build a dedicated community of renewable energy educators within a single school or district, led by a designated "Teacher Champion." Lincoln Elementary in Ellensburg, Washington received a Renewable Classroom project in October 2008. Educators within Lincoln Elementary received a customized renewable energy teacher training, hands-on science kit materials to augment the school's existing curricula, and complete access to the resources available on the Solar4RSchools.org website. Read full project narrative >>

Morgan Middle School

Location:
Ellensburg, WA
Grade Level:
6-8
Technology Type:
Renewable Classroom projects are designed to build a dedicated community of renewable energy educators within a single school or district, led by a designated "Teacher Champion." As part of the Ellensburg Community Project, in 2008 educators within Morgan Middle School received a customized renewable energy teacher training, hands-on science kit materials to augment the school's existing curricula, and complete access to the resources available on the Solar4RSchools.org website. Read full project narrative >>

Mount Stuart Elementary

Location:
Ellensburg, WA
Grade Level:
K-5

Thanks to the support of Seattle City Light, Mount Stuart Elementary in Ellensburg, Washington joined the Solar 4R Schools program in October 2008 when they received a Renewable Classroom project. Renewable Classroom projects are designed to build a dedicated community of renewable energy educators within a single school or district, led by a designated "Teacher Champion." Educators within Mount Stuart Elementary received a customized renewable energy teacher... Read full project narrative >>

Valley View Elementary

Location:
Ellensburg, WA
Grade Level:
K-6
Technology Type:

Renewable Classroom projects are designed to build a dedicated community of renewable energy educators within a single school or district, led by a designated “Teacher Champion.” In 2008, educators within Valley View Elementary in Ellensburg, Washington received a customized renewable energy teacher training, hands-on science kit materials to augment the school's existing curricula, and complete access to the resources available on the Solar4RSchools.org website... Read full project narrative >>