Clallam County moves on energy audit: LED conversions and hot‑water heat pump on five‑year plan, grant pursuit under way

Clallam County staff reviewed an energy audit and recommended two primary projects to meet the county’s energy‑use targets: replacing interior lighting with LED fixtures at the courthouse and juvenile services buildings, and replacing the courthouse hot‑water heat‑pump system.

Costs and funding options: Staff described a preliminary project cost in the neighborhood of $1.5 million for the recommended measures, and noted a potential early‑adopter incentive of up to $300,000 if the county completes work within the incentive window. Staff said they will pursue Department of Commerce grant funding that, when coupled with the incentive, could substantially reduce the county’s out‑of‑pocket cost; if grants are not secured staff recommended using REIT/refunding as a backstop and seeking a hardship extension from Commerce if needed.

Procurement and timeline: Staff recommended executing a state DES contract for design and estimates, proceeding with phased design and construction only if grant decisions are favorable or the board authorizes use of refunding. Staff emphasized the grant program expected to open in the first quarter of next year and the need to align contracting, measurement and reporting to qualify for the early‑adopter payment.

Why it matters: Staff said the projects have measurable payback through lower energy bills and that LED conversion alone is a high‑confidence, lower‑risk measure. The courthouse hot‑water replacement is necessary to meet the energy‑use target in combination with LEDs; staff said Commerce grant rules and the early‑adopter incentive make timing important.