The Port of Woodland is completing significant energy efficiency projects at the Down River Drive Industrial Park. Over the last year, the Port has upgraded lighting at three buildings and exterior lighting on most of the Port’s six buildings at the park. An initial investment by the Port of Woodland Commission of $50,000 will be reduced through incentives from Cowlitz PUD reducing the cost of the project to $24,000. Annually, this will save Port tenants $15,000 in energy costs and $300,000 in energy costs over the life of the project.
“The Port Commission is committed to improving energy efficiency at the Port’s industrial parks. The investment made by the Port provides our tenants reduced utility costs and reduces the Port’s maintenance costs. Cowlitz PUD has been a great partner as staff worked with us, calculating energy use at each of our buildings, completing inspections of lighting, heating, and HVAC systems and connecting the Port to incentives. This was a win for all involved especially for our seven tenants,” stated Port Executive Director Jennifer Wray-Keene.
“The ability to market our Down River Drive Industrial Park to prospective tenants with low utility costs improves the marketability of Port’s lease space. These cost savings for small businesses add up quickly and save our tenants significantly,” Commissioner Paul Cline stated.
The Port has improved energy efficiency in other ways, through the installation of industrial fans to improve air circulation to lower heating costs for tenants. Over the last year, five fans have been installed in three buildings. These investments of approximately $30,000 will increase energy use that will be reviewed over the next year through utility audits.
Beyond energy efficiency projects, Down River Drive is in the midst of a face lift with painting projects and new landscaping. “Providing an attractive industrial park along with energy efficiency is essential for our tenants to thrive and to attract new companies to the area. Though we are 100% occupied at Down River Drive, it provides the level of expectation at our upcoming industrial parks – Guild Road Industrial Park I and II,” stated Executive Director Keene.