TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TAP)

Northwest SEED provides technical assistance to community organizations in order to increase their ability to support renewable energy project development.

BACKGROUND
In the fall of 2005, Northwest SEED launched the Renewable Energy Development Assistance Program (REDAP), with 8 Community Action Agencies in rural Washington and Oregon. The goal of this initiative was to stimulate economic development in the region's rural and low-income communities by increasing the capacity of these organizations to undertake and support renewable energy project development. Through REDAP, Northwest SEED conducted workshops to educate community leaders about renewable energy options and project development considerations. Our ongoing technical assistance included guidance in community green building and renewable energy demonstration projects, support in seeking renewable energy feasibility funding, and energy management and efficiency planning for non-profit organizations that serve the communities.

ASSISTING COMMUNITIES
While REDAP formally closed in December of 2006, Northwest SEED continues to collaborate with community groups and organizations throughout the region. We hear often from community groups that are motivated to support clean energy, but lack the technical ability to do so on their own. For this reason, the concept of Community Technical Assistance is woven through many of our other programs, ranging from the organizing expertise we offer to campuses participating in our Green Campus Initiative to the energy planning and implementation we offer to tribes through our Tribal Energy Program. Northwest SEED also provides targeted outreach and education to communities about conservation, efficiency, clean power, and renewable energy development options.