Our Energy Future
OPALCO is planning for its energy future of the next 25 years. We need co-op members to get involved. We want to know: Do co-op members want to invest in … Read more
Blog
Top Stories
Driving Change: A Local Non-profit Provides EV Rides to Communities in Need
In 2013, two San Juan Islanders, Bob Reilly and Curt VanHyning, saw a desperate need for free or affordable transportation services in Friday Harbor for disabled and elderly members of … Read more
Powering the Future
Home battery systems can revolutionize energy independence As energy costs fluctuate and concerns about grid reliability and climate change increase, many homeowners are turning to home battery systems as a … Read more
Quick Fact
See all Quick FactsQuick Fact: OPALCO Tidal Energy Pilot Project
ABOUT this project: Given our unique service territory in the San Juan Islands, surrounded by the Salish Sea, people have been asking for years why we haven’t explored tidal energy … Read more
OPALCO Renewable Energy Community Meetings Recap
A few weeks ago, the OPALCO team held a series of community meetings about local, renewable energy. The meetings were held at all three major islands to engage co-op members … Read more
Rosario Strait Tidal Energy Project Update
September 30, 2025 is the last day to make public comments on the Rosario Tidal Energy Project as part of the public process with a pilot Draft License Application (DLA) … Read more
Find OPALCO back at their headquarters starting September 29
During the summer months, OPALCO worked on a critical maintenance project for the Eastsound headquarters. The roof of OPALCO’s 1970s built Eastsound headquarters office had reached the end of its … Read more
Quick Fact: Essential Public Facilities
ESSENTIAL PUBLIC FACILITIES is a legal category for hard to site public serving facilities that local codes can outline mitigation conditions but without outright prohibition. Essential Public Facility status ensures … Read more
Quick Fact: Renewable Energy Siting Criteria
This guide outlines the criteria that must be met for siting OPALCO renewable energy projects in San Juan County. These standards ensure that proposed sites are compatible with the utility’s … Read more
Lighting the Way
Local students attend ICUA Leadership Camp Every year, students from San Juan County schools represent Orcas Power & Light Cooperative at the Idaho Consumer Owned Utilities Association Youth Rally. OPALCO’s … Read more