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Valley View Elementary School in Toppenish is in the final phase of a renewable energy project funded by a Washington State Department of Commerce grant. The initiative involves installing solar panels and a battery storage system to mitigate the 27% rise in electricity costs.

The solar panels are already installed, and a concrete pad for the battery system has been completed. The battery, custom-made and en route, will store excess energy and provide backup power during outages. Expected to be operational by May, the project aims to save the district thousands annually and serve as an educational resource for STEM students.