Orcas Center Powers Up!
Orcas Center is a local hub of culture and community for Orcas Island and greater San Juan County. Incorporated as a nonprofit arts and cultural organization in 1976, Orcas Center … Read more
Energy Efficiency & Conservation
OPALCO energy efficiency and conservation news and links to programs
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
Island Efficiency
A Local Business makes the Switch to Ductless Heatpumps One of the many things that makes the San Juan Islands so special is the rich culture of small and family-owned … Read more
Solar Farming Protects Rural Character
In Colorado, Jack’s Solar Garden pairs traditional farming with solar energy production. The San Juan County Comprehensive Plan calls for rural character and advocates for energy independence. Increasing local energy … Read more
Tidal Energy Pilot Project
A successful effort means locally generated, clean, reliable power for the islands. Earlier this year, Orcas Power & Light Cooperative was awarded a grant through the Department of Energy to … Read more
The Orcas Island Exchange Harnesses the Power of the Sun
The Exchange – Orcas Island’s unique non-profit transfer station and reuse facility started – generating electricity from the sun on July 2. The nonprofit flipped the switch on a new … Read more