As we look towards a more sustainable future, the role of community-driven initiatives in fostering resilience, economic growth, and environmental stewardship cannot be overstated. At the forefront of this movement is the Community Solar Garden Initiative, a transformative project led by the Community Power Collaborative (CPC) and Key Tech Labs. Our mission is ambitious: to install 100 solar microgrids in 100 urban gardens across the Pacific Northwest (PNW), creating sustainable energy solutions that are deeply integrated into the fabric of local communities. 

To create a network of resilient, sustainable urban gardens that provide clean energy, educational opportunities, and economic benefits to local communities. 

The vision behind the Community Solar Garden Initiative is to establish a network of resilient, sustainable urban gardens that serve as green community centers. These gardens not only provide clean energy but also offer educational opportunities and economic benefits to the surrounding neighborhoods. By developing a turnkey solution for a drop-and-install solar microgrid, we aim to empower and light up urban gardens across the PNW, making them central hubs of community activity and resilience. 

Our journey began with Shark Garden in Burien, Washington—a half-acre school and community garden that has become a beacon of sustainability and education. This garden, supported by funding from the Port of Seattle, King Conservation District, and SparkNW, features two off-grid solar systems. These systems power everything from garden events to irrigation, greenhouse operations, and even an agricultural robot named FarmBot.

Shark Garden also hosts a variety of community events, such as outdoor movie nights and cooking demonstrations, all powered by the solar microgrids. This garden is more than just a place to grow food; it’s an educational green energy hub that demonstrates the powerful intersection of food, water, energy, and community.

To learn more about the project and to see the cool video SparkNw did about our upcoming solar microgrid project, check out this video https://vimeo.com/884398131 

These initiatives are part of our open-source community engagement plan, which is designed to maximize the use of solar microgrids by turning them into central green hubs. These spaces are not only environmentally sustainable but also socially enriching, offering venues for education, cultural events, and even resilience hubs during times of crisis. 

The Community Solar Garden Initiative is not just about creating green spaces; it's about fostering economic development and providing new opportunities for communities. Each solar garden installation is tied to a workforce training program, engaging local community members in the construction and maintenance of these systems. This approach not only builds the necessary green infrastructure but also empowers individuals with the skills and knowledge to participate in the green economy.

Our Blended Learning Solar Apprenticeship Program combines online education, virtual reality training, and real-world projects to prepare students for careers in the solar industry. Participants earn micro-certifications approved by the Department of Labor, contributing towards apprenticeship hours and equipping them with both technical skills and soft skills necessary for success

Central to our mission is a commitment to environmental and social justice. The Community Solar Garden Initiative addresses the disconnection of marginalized communities, particularly African Americans, from the land. By promoting the Justice 40 Program and leveraging funds from initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act, we aim to support communities burdened by high energy costs and food insecurity. Through education and empowerment, we help these communities take control of their energy resources and reconnect with their natural environments. 

The Community Solar Garden Initiative is just beginning. Our goal is to create a full pipeline for community self-development, supported by digital business and technical assistance from partners like Key Tech Labs and the Digital Business Center and Coop. We are committed to ensuring that this initiative not only brings immediate benefits to the communities we serve but also fosters long-term sustainability and growth.

The Community Solar Garden Initiative represents a unique opportunity to make a significant positive impact on the environment, economy, and social fabric of communities across the Pacific Northwest. By bringing together developers, engaging community members, and utilizing advanced technologies, we aim to create a model of sustainable development that can be replicated globally.

We invite you to support this initiative and join us in making the world better, one garden at a time. For more information and to get involved, please visit our project page or contact us directly.