PUD and UW Help Local Company Coordinate Site Assessment

The PUD recently worked with the University of Washington to coordinate a site assessment visit at Electroimpact, a local automation company, to find opportunities for rebates and grants toward energy-efficient products. The assessment was performed by undergraduate students through the university’s Industrial Training and Assessment Center (ITAC).

After the visit, the ITAC offered recommendations on energy-efficiency improvements that Electroimpact used to apply for funding from the Department of Energy to implement the improvements. The PUD offered a letter of support in Electroimpact’s grant application, and the grant was awarded. Electroimpact was also able to take advantage of PUD rebates to help fund the implementation.

Electroimpact, a leading provider of factory automation and tooling solutions, specializing in the aerospace industry, is a PUD commercial customer based in Mukilteo. Founded in 1986, the company has grown to become the largest integrator of aircraft assembly lines globally, serving major clients like Airbus, Boeing and Northrop-Grumman. Electroimpact prides itself on its engineer-driven approach, ensuring continuity and precision throughout the project lifecycle.

“We enjoyed the survey conducted by the UW ITAC,” said Peter Zieve, the founder of Electroimpact. “UW ITAC has assisted us in seeking funding for upgrades of lighting, thermostats and compressors. There are a lot of happy people working under new, modern and efficient light fixtures!”

In the past few years, the UW ITAC has partnered with the PUD to assess multiple commercial customers with great success. The program provides an excellent opportunity to identify ways to save energy, determine available utility rebates and potential grant resources, and provide valuable hands-on engineering experience to aspiring undergraduate students. If you are interested, email uwitac@uw.edu to learn more and determine if your business is eligible.