Orcas Island High School - Solar 4R Schools Array
Live Solar Electric Generation
Bonneville Environmental Foundation provided educational materials and project management services for this project through its Solar 4R Schools program. BEF, a non-profit organization, was established in 1998 to restore watershed ecosystems and further the development and use of renewable energy resources. Through revenues generated from the sales of green power products, BEF funds and manages projects that restore damaged watersheds and support new renewable energy.
Orcas Power and Light Cooperative is a member-owned, non-profit cooperative electric utility providing services to San Juan County since 1937. OPALCO’s mostly hydro-electric power is generated by Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) and delivered to the islands by way of submarine cables. OPALCO distributes electricity to 20 islands in the archipelago and employs approximately 60 people in the county. The Cooperative is governed by its member-owners who elect a seven-member board of directors. Elections are held each year at the annual meeting.
Through strong partnerships, local communities are having a position of influence on global issues.
Orcas Island High School would like to thank Orcas Power & Light Cooperative for funding this project and Bonneville Environmental Foundation for providing project management and educational materials. By choosing non-polluting, renewable energy and protecting important natural resources, we are making a difference in the health of our community and environment, now and for generations to come. It is our hope that this project will inspire students to pursue careers and make decisions that make our world a better place.