Central Washington Solar Project Receives RD Funds

On Thursday, the USDA announced a $78.3 million investment through the Powering Affordable Clean Energy program [PACE], which includes $4 million bound for Washington.  Cunningham Solar is slated to use those funds to develop nearly three megawatts of solar energy in the central part of the state.  USDA's Rural Development said this project will connect with Big Bend Electrical Co-op to distribute power to homes in Washington.  The Department added the project will create approximately 20 short-term construction jobs and supports the state’s goal of achieving a greenhouse gas emissions-free electricity supply by 2045.

“Harnessing solar energy brings tangible benefits to rural communities in Washington.  This project demonstrates how federal and local partnerships can drive innovation, lower costs, and create a more sustainable future for rural families and businesses," noted Helen Price Johnson, Washington State Director for Rural Development. 

The initiative is expected to provide electricity to 560 Adams County households.

Rural Development noted funding for the PACE program comes from the Inflation Reduction Act, marking "the largest investment in rural electrification since President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act into law in 1936 as part of the New Deal. This initiative continues the Biden Administration’s commitment to strengthening rural communities by providing affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions".

According to Kelly Haugh, Manager of Community Relations for Big Bend Electric, the project will serve accounts located in the towns of Hatton and Cunningham and surrounding farms.  The accounts located in these areas are comprised of a variety of service types including homes, shops, wells, irrigation and commercial.

“We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with OneEnergy on this project and are looking forward to the benefits it will provide our community,” she added.

“Partnering with local governments, companies, and others to provide clean, reliable energy to rural Americans lower’s people’s costs, strengthens the nation’s energy security and reduces pollution,” said Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack. “Under the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA has made historic investments in rural America to create a more affordable and sustainable future, benefiting rural families, businesses and the health of our planet for generations to come.” 

Additional details on all funding recipients and finalists are available on the PACE Website.

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