Centralia Coal Transition Weatherization Board
supports energy efficiency upgrades for St. Joseph School
Centralia, Wash. The Centralia Coal Transition Weatherization Board approved a grant award in the amount of $100,000 to support weatherization and energy efficiency improvements for St. Joseph School. The project is funded to support the school’s efforts to improve HVAC efficiency by replacing an outdated gas boiler and windows throughout the building. The installation of ductless units will allow for more flexibility and efficient control of the heating/cooling use and lower energy needs overall.
St. Joseph School was built in 1923 and many of the weatherization components of the building are showing their age. Replacement of outdated lighting with LED fixtures was the first step in making building improvements. The upgrades for the HVAC and windows will be their next step to improve the operation of the facility and the safety and comfort for students and staff.
The Weatherization Board was formed as part of the 2011 Agreement between TransAlta and the state of Washington to transition the Centralia plant away from coal-fired operations with one unit retiring in December 2020 and the second unit in December 2025.
Overview of the Centralia Coal Transition Funding Boards:
Annual payments for the funding boards began in 2012 with the last payment due December 31, 2023. The opportunity to start flowing dollars into projects became effective December 31, 2015.
Weatherization Board ($10M): established to fund energy efficiency and weatherization for the residents, employees, business, non-profit organizations and local governments within Lewis County and South Thurston County; up to $1 million shall be allocated to fund residential energy efficiency and weatherization measures for low-income and moderate-income residents of Lewis County and South Thurston County;
Economic & Community Development Board ($20M): established to fund education, retraining, economic development, and community enhancement; at least $5M shall be allocated to fund education, retraining and economic development specifically targeting the needs of workers displaced from the Centralia facility;