ZEN Announces AmeriWest as SolarizeWA Ag Program Solar Contractor
3/11/20242 min read
SPOKANE, WA - Zero Emissions Northwest, LLC (ZEN) is proud to announce that it has awarded AmeriWest Electric Corp. as the solar contractor for ZEN’s Solarize WA Agriculture program.
“We’re proud to award AmeriWest as the solar provider for our Solarize WA Ag program, as they are based right here in Spokane and provided a competitive RFP,” said David Funk, president and founder of ZEN. “All the proposals we received were highly qualified showcasing a maturing renewable capability here in the Inland Northwest, but we had to pick one, and we are excited to begin working with AmeriWest to increase behind-the-meter solar in rural Washington.”
The Solarize WA Ag program is a group-purchasing program created by ZEN for agricultural producers and rural businesses that bundles grant-eligible projects together with one contractor to lower the initial cost of solar.
“Our focus is on keeping the financial benefits of these energy projects within the rural and agricultural communities we serve – which is specifically the Inland Northwest,” said Funk.
ZEN sent out a Request for Proposals to 11 solar contractors for bidding. An independent Advisory Committee was created consisting of local rural business executives, farmers and engineers to review all bids and assist in selecting a company that will benefit these communities the most. AmeriWest was awarded based on several factors including price competitiveness, capabilities in addition to solar, and locale.
“We are excited to be a part of this Solarize program, helping to deliver savings and energy independence to farmers and their families. And being able to do so in so many rural communities makes it really special." said Jim Zupkus, AmeriWest owner.
Applicants for the USDA REAP (Rural Energy for America Program) have two deadlines to apply for grant-eligible energy projects for the next two quarters, respectively. ZEN helps streamline the process through its Solarize WA Ag program, which currently has 30+ applicants.
About Zero Emissions Northwest
Zero Emissions Northwest is an energy consulting firm dedicated to developing and deploying practical technologies to reduce emissions in the rural Pacific Northwest. Through partnerships, education, and advocacy, we strive to promote sustainability for a better future in the communities we proudly serve.
