The Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority will install a new solar energy system next year at one of its stations after receiving a $606,181 grant from the state.

Crews will install solar panels on the roofs of two buildings at Fire Station 76, 20676 72nd Ave. S., which also includes the department’s maintenance shop, according to a Kent RFA media release.

The system is expected to reduce the annual electrical costs by half, from approximately $16,000 to $8,000. The system also entitles the Kent Fire Department to a $30,000 state solar production credit over six years.

Kent Fire will pay $135,000 toward the system, which will pay for itself in 10 years when the credits are applied. Construction of the solar system is expected to begin in June.

Battalion Chief Mark Jones spearheaded the grant request from the state Department of Commerce.

“This grant is very important to the department from both cost savings and being green,” Jones said. “Here in the vehicle maintenance shop we are always looking for ways to better serve the community and the department.

“Our staff are always thinking recycling and reuse. To heat the maintenance shop, we burn the used oil from the fire apparatus. This reduces waste and reduces heating costs. All of the metals that we need to dispose of, like used brakes and metal fabrication remnants go to metal recycling companies.”

The state awarded 28 grants worth $8.6 million. The grants, announced on Dec. 12 by the state, must be used solely for energy and operational cost savings and solar installations. Grant requests totaled nearly $22 million.

“Moving to more energy-efficient publicly owned built buildings, and towards cleaner, renewable energy sources is good for the environment and good for our economy,” said Commerce Director Brian Bonlender. “These grants support the Governor’s comprehensive climate action agenda and help spur growth and employment in our clean energy and energy efficiency sectors.”

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