Pinehurst School District Wins Community Renewable Energy Grant

On February 5, 2026, the Oregon Department of Energy announced that Pinehurst School District received a $219,500 Community Renewable Energy grant. The funding will support installation of a 19 kW solar array and 71.5 kWh battery backup system at Pinehurst Elementary School in the Greensprings community, approximately 25 miles southeast of Ashland.

The district was among 24 applicants awarded grants in the fourth year of the program's operation.

A Resilience Hub for Our Community

The solar installation will generate 100 percent of the school's annual energy needs and establish it as a "resilience hub" for community emergencies and power outages.

Board Chair Deb Evans explained the hub's purpose: "The hub will be a place where the community can come together and access essentials like refrigeration for medications, water, cell phone charging, and information."

Construction Timeline

Construction is scheduled to begin summer 2026, with True South Solar as the installation contractor. The Greensprings area regularly faces winter storms and wildfire threats, making reliable backup power critical for the community.

About the Program

The Community Renewable Energy Grant Program emerged from HB 2021 and prioritizes projects demonstrating community resilience and energy equity. Pinehurst School District operates as one of Oregon's smallest unconsolidated districts, serving approximately 15 students with a comprehensive curriculum including arts, STEAM, and outdoor education since 1908.