Port commissioners move forward with energy improvements at Friday Harbor Airport

The commissioners of the Port of Friday Harbor voted last month to perform a comprehensive energy assessment at Friday Harbor Airport, the results from which will guide enhancements to the facility’s energy efficiency and resiliency.

The assessment – part of the Port’s five-year capital improvement plan with the Federal Aviation Administration – will take place early next year, according to Port Commissioner Victoria Compton. “During that process, we’ll be able to determine what the best steps for efficiencies will be, including solar, which is of particular interest to the Commission from a standpoint of sustainability and cost savings,” Victoria says.

Project funding comes from the FAA by way of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that was signed into law last November. The IIJA provides $550 billion in new federal investment in infrastructure between 2022 and 2026, including roads, bridges, mass transit, water infrastructure, and broadband.

“Keeping our operations sustainable and our infrastructure resilient are top priorities of the Port Commission,” Victoria explains. “Investments in solar and other energy efficiencies check both of those boxes, and save the Port – and taxpayers – money.”

The Port is receiving more than $1 million in federal funds, which will also support moving and replacing an old fuel tank and the construction of new hangars. The latter project will allow the airport to break even on its revenue and expenses.

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