Harrington School District Celebrates Solar Installation with Ribbon Cutting

Harrington, Wash., Oct 1 — The Harrington School District, in partnership with Zero Emissions Northwest (ZEN), Partners for Rural Washington (PRWA), and Washington State University Extension’s Energy Program, celebrated the completion of its new solar energy installation with a ribbon cutting ceremony at Harrington City Park, across from the school. The event marked a milestone, as the district is the first in the state to participate in The Giving Grid, a program designed to bring the benefits of solar energy and cost savings to rural school districts throughout Washington.

Empowering Rural Schools with The Giving Grid
“Today, we celebrate not just a solar installation, but a new model for rural schools to thrive,” said David Funk, president of ZEN. “The Giving Grid is about empowering communities, supporting educators, and ensuring that every student — no matter where they live — can benefit from a sustainable future.”

The Giving Grid, spearheaded by ZEN, is a groundbreaking initiative that helps rural school districts access clean, renewable energy while reducing operational costs and reinvesting those energy savings into much needed low-income programs such as STEM programs, after-school initiatives or even mobile health clinics for students who don’t have access to affordable or regular healthcare.

Community and Partnership at the Forefront
In addition to Funk, the ceremony featured remarks from local and regional leaders, who highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing clean energy and strengthening rural communities.

“The Giving Grid aligns perfectly with our mission to foster innovation and resilience in Washington’s rural areas,” said Jody Opheim, director of Partners for Rural Washington. “Healthy, resilient schools are the heart of rural communities, and projects like this set a powerful example and lead the way for others to follow suit.”

A Brighter Future for Harrington
Harrington School District’s new solar array was installed by Ellensburg Solar and will generate significant energy savings, allowing the district to reinvest that money in low-income student programs and resources. As the first school to join The Giving Grid, Harrington is paving the way for other rural districts to follow.

“We’re proud to be the first, but we won’t be the last,” said Courtney Strozyk, representing Harrington School District. “This project shows what’s possible when communities, partners, and educators come together.”

The event concluded with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, music from the Harrington School Band, and a celebration of the district’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. After the ceremony, attendees enjoyed donuts from local bakery The Mercantile, and had the opportunity to speak with the event’s leaders and partners. The celebration not only marked the completion of a solar project but also showcased the power of partnership, innovation and community spirit.

About Zero Emissions Northwest (ZEN):
Zero Emissions Northwest is a Spokane-based energy consulting firm dedicated to creating a sustainable future through practical energy solutions for rural communities in the Inland Northwest. By educating, collaborating, and supporting individuals, rural businesses, and organizations, ZEN inspires action towards a zero-emissions future.

About The Giving Grid:
The Giving Grid is an initiative created through a partnership with ZEN, PRWA, and WSU that helps rural schools access solar energy, reduce costs, and reinvest those energy savings into low-income programs. By connecting schools with resources, expertise, and funding, The Giving Grid is lighting the way for more prosperous rural communities to thrive across the region.

SOLAR SMILES - The Giving Grid celebrated its first solar installation at Harrington School District. Pictured from L to R: Jody Opheim, Executive Director for PRWA; Mike Gaffney, Associate Director for WSU Extension; Kelli Tanke, Harrington School Office Manager; Courtney Strozyk, Superintendent at HSD; Colby Peone from Ellensburg Solar; and David Funk, President at ZEN.

Photo by Bob Hubner, WSU