Grants provided by the Washington State Department of Commerce are making public buildings statewide healthier, more comfortable, and more efficient.
Governor Jay Inslee visited Kitsap and King counties to see firsthand how state funding is making schools and public buildings more energy-efficient and climate-friendly. His visit included two key stops:
- Richard Gordon Elementary School: Governor Inslee met with students, teachers, and staff to discuss how $315,000 from the Department of Commerce’s energy efficiency grant program funded upgrades like new controls, variable flow pumps, and improved lighting. These improvements have made the school more comfortable for everyone.
- Shoreline Community College: Governor Inslee learned about the campus’s new electric heat pumps and pressurization control upgrades, which were funded by a $250,000 grant from the Department of Commerce’s state project improvement in 2020. These upgrades are part of broader efforts to reduce energy bills and improve air quality.
He also met with students and professors at Shoreline Community College, who demonstrated advanced manufacturing technologies and discussed career opportunities in specialized fields like CNC machining, biotechnology, and clean energy.
Students interested in climate and clean energy careers can find more information on Washington’s Climate Action website. They can also explore Career Connect Washington for career opportunities. To learn more about Governor Inslee’s visit, visit here.