We’ve Flipped the Switch to Solar!

Ten years ago The Exchange took over management of the Orcas Transfer Station. Since then, thanks to YOUR incredible support, we have accomplished a lot! Some of the biggest highlights include:

• Opening The New Exchange: Since re-opening in 2017, The Exchange has diverted hundreds of tons of material away from the landfill, and back into the community.

• Introducing Numerous New Recycling Programs: We now recycle tires, batteries, paint, light bulbs, electronics, hazardous waste, cooking oil, and more.

• Installing a Glass Crusher: Between November 2021 and October 2023 we have crushed 166 tons of glass into a usable building material, instead of shipping it back to the mainland at significant cost for inefficient disposal.

• Building a Baler facility: Completed in 2024 this facility will greatly improve the island’s recycling system by allowing us to separate and bale aluminum, cardboard, mixed paper and plastics. By shipping baled materials we drastically increase the amount of material that gets recycled, and significantly decrease our carbon footprint.

As a non-profit we can do these things because profit is not our goal. Our goal is to make Orcas a zero waste community, and to keep disposal costs to a minimum for everybody.

A zero waste mission is almost by default a climate change mission. Almost any solid waste management decision has climate repercussions. Currently ORS/The Exchange uses about 44,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year. In July 2024 we “flipped the switch” on the new solar installation. The new panels on both The Exchange and our new Baler Building, will allow us to generate more than 94,000 kWh annually – the fourth biggest solar array in the County.

“OPALCO is very supportive of organizations like The Exchange, that are stepping up and getting their businesses ready for our energy future. Investing in renewable energy and efficiency measures are only going to make our community more resilient.”  –OPALCO General Manager Foster Hildreth