The State of Washington has received a $1 million federal grant to reduce the energy burden of families eligible for federal assistance by developing wind power dedicated to low-income households. The grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) REACH (Residential Energy Assistance Challenge) project will fund a project to develop 12 MW of wind power with a goal of reducing the energy burden of 12,000 families eligible for assistance by 20%.

This will be done by helping agencies that serve low-income families acquire and operate wind turbines, exchanging the energy produced with other power companies for rate discounts and rebates for their low-income energy customers. These agencies will also receive help in becoming part owners in cooperatively-owned wind farms with blocks of power set aside for low-income households.

“This funding demonstrates our commitment to providing long-term solutions for people and communities during very challenging economic times,” Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) said, in announcing the grant. “I am proud that Washington State is leading the way with such innovative approaches to energy assistance.”

The Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) will administer the three-year grant through “A World Institute for a Sustainable Humanity” (A W.I.S.H.). The Bellingham-based contractor has provided training and technical assistance, expert witnesses, program design, strategic planning, and advocacy for public interest clients across the nation. A W.I.S.H was also the lead contractor for Washington’s current REACH grant.

“This precedent-setting grant will allow us to continue the successful partnerships we developed with stakeholders during our first REACH grant by creating a slice of fixed-price power that is both green and affordable, dedicated for low-income households in the state,” said Michael Karp, president and chief executive officer of A W.I.S.H.