At Western Solar, we believe in supporting the people and organizations that make our communities thrive—because we live and work here too! That’s why we partner with nonprofits, local sports and recreation programs, environmental groups, and organizations that help families in need. By investing in the place we call home, we’re helping ensure our communities remain vibrant, connected, and resilient for years to come.
The Western Solar Initiative
Solar can help nonprofits significantly reduce their electricity costs, freeing up more of their budget for essential programs and services instead of utility bills. However, nonprofits typically have a difficult time investing in solar, since they can’t take advantage of solar incentives due to their tax-exempt status. The Western Solar Initiative was created to spotlight outstanding local nonprofits while hosting educational workshops to raise funds for donated solar installations.
These are a few of our favorite projects!
Interfaith Coalition
Ferndale, WA
Interfaith Coalition’s Our House triplex in Ferndale, completed in July 2014, provides housing for up to ten families in need every year. This 2.5 kW system was designed, donated, and installed in partnership with Itek Energy and St. James Presbyterian Church. While small by today’s standards, the system was estimated to save Interfaith Coalition $1,108 per year, allowing them to redirect those funds directly toward their mission of providing homes, healthcare, and shelter for all.
Bellingham Food Bank
Bellingham, WA
A collaborative project, the Solarize Whatcom campaign resulted in the donation of 48 solar panels by Itek Energy and installation donated by Western Solar and Ecotech Solar. The system was estimated to provide annual electricity savings of $1,300 combined with additional incentives of $13,000 over the first four years.
The Bellingham Food Bank can provide 100 lbs of food for every $10 saved, according to Executive Director Mike Cohen.
Lydia Place | Baker Place
Bellingham, WA
This 10.8 kW system on Lydia Place’s Baker Place housing complex was a joint donation between Western Solar, Itek Energy, Aslan Brewing, and David Bradley Engineering.
It’s calculated to provide over $53,000 in energy savings and rebates over 25 years, directly funding Lydia Place’s mission of providing safe housing, case management, and crisis counseling to women.
Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association
Bellingham, WA
Thanks to a summer full of educational solar workshops, Western Solar donated a 10.08 kW system to the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association.
This system offsets an estimated 43% of their annual electricity usage and frees up funds to be used for continued restoration of stream habitat, tree and shrub planting to support healthy stream banks, and education for Whatcom County students.
We’re currently dialing in plans for The Western Solar Initiative for 2026.
Stay tuned for opportunities to nominate your nonprofit!
Clean Energy & Environmental Partnerships
Washington Solar Energy Industries Association
WASEIA works tirelessly to advance solar policy in Washington, protect consumers, and educate the public about the benefits of solar energy, ensuring our industry remains strong, ethical, and accessible for years to come.
Several Western Solar employees have served on the board of WASEIA over the past five years.
Sustainable Connections
Since 2002, Sustainable Connections has been at the heart of Whatcom County’s shift toward a regenerative local economy. They bring together businesses, nonprofits, and neighbors to strengthen local food systems, advance climate solutions, expand housing access, and foster community. Their dedication helps ensure our region is not just resilient, but truly thriving.
Do you know who else was founded in 2002? Western Solar! That means we’re basically twins, right?
Spark Northwest
We have partnered with Spark Northwest on community solar initiatives that expand access to clean energy for households that might otherwise be left out. Their commitment to equitable energy solutions, policy advocacy, and hands-on education inspires us — and it’s extra special knowing one of our former team members now contributes their talents to their mission.
Olympia Community Solar
We have partnered with Olympia Community Solar on two highly successful Solarize campaigns, and Western Solar was the highest achieving participant both years. We value their leadership in expanding access to solar through innovative community projects and advocacy, and we enjoy working with their team, especially Ben and Mason, to bring more clean energy to more people across Washington.
Skagit Valley Clean Energy Alliance
We work alongside the Skagit Valley Clean Energy Alliance to promote clean energy adoption in the Skagit region, helping residents and businesses transition to solar. Their education-first approach aligns with our commitment to empowering communities, and their smart, community-minded board members—some of whom are our customers—make collaboration both inspiring and fun.
Whatcom Million Trees Project
The Whatcom Million Trees Project shares our mission for a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient future. Trees and solar go hand-in-hand: both create lasting benefits for our community and our climate.
We value their collaborative, hands-in-the-dirt approach and proudly support their efforts, including sponsoring the Whatcom Tree Festival.
Community Organizations
Mt. Baker Volunteer Association
The Mt. Baker Volunteer Association provides training that is instrumental to our community’s mountain safety. Many of our staff, customers, and friends benefit from the skills and dedication of their well trained volunteers. We co-founded an annual fundraiser that has raised more than ten thousand dollars for their training and equipment needs, and we encourage our staff to pursue their passions in the mountains while staying safe.
Saving Pets One at a Time
At Western Solar, we have a soft spot for our furry friends—there are dogs in our offices and in many of our homes. Saving Pets One at a Time (SPOT) works tirelessly to find loving forever homes for homeless pets through fostering, adoption, and responsible care.
As both one of our customers and an incredible group to work with, our connection with them is especially meaningful.
Blue Skies for Children
Blue Skies for Children makes a lasting impact in the lives of homeless, low-income, and foster children by providing enrichment activities, school supplies, and essential items that help them thrive.
At Western Solar, we care deeply about our community and believe in empowering children to build a brighter future. This mission resonates strongly with our customers and staff alike.
Bellingham Bells
While not a nonprofit, the Bellingham Bells bring our community together through the shared joy of baseball while supporting local causes and celebrating service. We love giving tickets to our customers and staff, and we have a great time at events with the Bells where we do giveaways and enjoy the fun, heart filled energy of these games. We are proud to partner with them during Salute to Service events that honor veterans and active duty military.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County
The Boys and Girls Club of Whatcom County provides a safe, positive space where young people can learn, grow, and build the skills they need to shine in life. Partnering with the Club gives us the opportunity to spark curiosity about solar energy and inspire the next generation to think about clean energy solutions. Supporting their work feels like investing in both the leaders of tomorrow and the brighter days ahead for our entire community.
United Way Whatcom County
We first learned about United Way of Whatcom County through our friend John from the Bellingham Bells, and once we saw the wide range of local organizations they support, we knew we had to be part of it. United Way opens doors and removes barriers for our friends and neighbors experiencing financial hardship, while also strengthening the entire community through programs that improve lives and expand opportunities. Joining their efforts allows us to help create lasting, positive change across Whatcom County.
