OLYMPIA, Wash. — In a major move to reduce energy consumption and lower emissions, Washington state’s Department of Commerce has awarded $45 million in Clean Buildings Performance Grant funding to 70 building owners. This funding will help these owners implement energy-efficient upgrades in line with the state’s Clean Buildings Performance Standard.

In addition to the grants, the department has rolled out the Energy Audit Incentive Program, allocating an additional $14.5 million from the state budget. This program is designed to assist public building owners with the costs of energy audits, which assess energy performance and pinpoint areas for improvement.

“Commerce is eager to help building owners across Washington cut energy costs while advancing our state’s clean energy future,” said Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn. “By improving energy efficiency, we’re reducing emissions, creating jobs, and ensuring that communities — especially those in rural and underserved areas — benefit from a healthier, more sustainably built environment and a stronger local economy.”

The grants will fund a range of energy-saving retrofits, including:

• Upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting
• Modernizing heating and cooling systems
• Implementing smart building technologies to optimize energy use
• Developing compliance documentation such as energy benchmarking and energy management plans

One recipient, Megalodon Properties in Yakima, will be applying these upgrades to the Larson Building, an 11-story art deco landmark. The project aims to preserve the building’s historic charm while enhancing energy efficiency for tenants, which include nonprofits, first responders, and other professionals.

“The energy upgrades at the Larson Building will breathe new life into a historic structure while preserving its architectural charm for future generations,” said Larry Hull of Megalodon Properties. “For tenants — including nonprofits, first responders, and other professionals — these improvements will enhance comfort, quietness, and sustainability, reinforcing the building’s role as a vital community hub.”

With buildings accounting for 25% of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions, these efforts are critical in reducing the environmental impact of the built environment. By helping building owners invest in energy-efficient upgrades, Washington is taking a significant step toward a more sustainable future.

These grants will not only help reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency but will also lower utility costs for building owners and tenants.

Originally reported by Beth McCue in The Well News.