There's been a lot of talk about the stability of the electrical grid in the United States. Eastern Washington's situation is better than most. We currently benefit from hydroelectric power with the dam system on the Columbia River. There has also been investment in wind power near Ellensburg and the tri-cities. 

Solar panel and wind turbine farm clean energy.
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But it is time to start updating the entire grid in Washington state and to that end. The Washington State Department of Commerce is investing in 14 projects. Just announced last week. 

According to a news release from February 29th. the Washington state department of commerce says, 

“The 14 selected proposals are representative of the critical role energy plays in every community. Funding supports the planning and development of new projects, as well as the construction of projects that have already completed the design phase. The projects will also result in new jobs, including construction and specialized maintenance and operation positions.” 

California Faces Continued Energy Woes
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Of those 14 projects coming to Washington state four of them will be centered in Eastern Washington.  

According to the Washington State Department of Commerce. 

“$350,000 to City of Ellensburg for a smart grid solution for renewable energy deployment to the city’s electric utility. 

$149,534 to Energy Northwest to study the technical and economic characteristics of a long-duration energy storage project study in Benton County. 

$73,234 to PacifiCorp for a feasibility study to determine the scope, size and technical requirements for a microgrid to support emergency response and additional community and environmental benefits at State Fair Park in Yakima. 

$200,000 to Puget Sound Energy for a regional planning project evaluating grid infrastructure in Kittitas County. It will also review community context, including wildfire risks and resiliency opportunities.” 

California Power Grid Strained By Heat Wave
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There's a lot of work to be done and a fair amount of money to be spent to get our grid in Washington State up to date but this is a small start. 

Commerce invests $8.1 million to expand renewable energy use, strengthen Washington’s electric grid (govdelivery.com) 

Want to Live Off the Grid? Here's Your Dream Mountain Home in Waitsburg, Washington

Want to get away from it all? Tired of all the politics and negative news? Want to isolate from the threat of the pandemic? Well, here’s an idea nestled in the mountains near Waitsburg, Washington. Just imagine, no neighbors, no electrical bills, clean water, wildlife, and 90 acres of land to explore. This custom-built totally off-the-grid mountain retreat comes with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a large shop, and a guest cottage…well, sort of, it’s a converted RV.

Gallery Credit: Paul Drake

 

See a Missouri Off-the-Grid Bus Made to Survive Zombie Apocalypse

Gallery Credit: Jessica, Tiny House Listings.com

 

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