We've Gone Solar!
The Story
In August 2024, Methow Valley United Methodist Church was awarded a generous grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce to install solar panels with battery backup.
Through the fall and winter, we worked with Michiel Zuidweg of MZ Solar Consulting to design the system and select a the contractor to build it. We had an archaeological survey done, worked on the contract with the Department of Commerce, and selected Forecast Energy as the contractor.
We broke ground in May 2025 and switched to solar power at the end of October.
The Plan
A resilience hub for the Methow Valley
With solar power and battery backup, Methow Valley United Methodist Church will have power even when the power is out in the rest of the Valley. Our goal is to become a resource center and resilience hub for the people of the Methow.
When it's cold out, we'll have heat. When it's hot out, we'll have air conditioning. When it's smoky, we'll have clean air. A place to charge your devices, run your important medical equipment, stay comfortable, and connect with your community. You can even charge your EV—we'll have a charger installed by spring 2026!
Our large kitchen will provide space for a hot meal, and our fellowship hall will be open for folks to come and hang out. For kids, we have a nursery with plenty of toys and activities.
Want to get involved? Reach out and let us know!