Thurston Climate Action Team (TCAT)

"I never could have afforded something like this on my own...This has been one of the most meaningful improvements in my life since my stroke, and I will never forget the kindness and care that made it possible."

These are words of gratitude from a recipient of a portable heat pump this summer through TCAT's Cooling Thurston program. Most homes and apartments in Thurston County are heated with fossil fuels and lack cooling during summer heat. This dangerously impacts our health, our environment, and our pocketbooks. Low-income families are especially vulnerable to climate extremes and pay a much higher proportion of their income on energy.

Thanks to you, TCAT was able to distribute 51 portable heat pumps to low-income renters in Thurston County in 2025. This pilot project filled a gap. Rebates and tax breaks for heat pumps were available to homeowners but not renters. Half the population of Thurston County rents. Even with incentives, many people cannot afford a portable heat pump to protect them from the dangers of extreme summer heat. With your continued support we can change that!

Thurston Climate Action Team (TCAT) is working to improve energy efficiency, reduce the use of fossil fuels, and protect people from the dangers of extreme heat caused by climate change. TCAT was instrumental in getting the county and cities of Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater to adopt the Thurston Climate Mitigation Plan. Now we are fighting to ensure its goals are met including cutting carbon emissions 45% by the year 2030, and 85% by 2050. Currently emissions are still on the rise. 

TOGETHER we can change that!  

JOIN US! You can help make Thurston County cooler, cleaner, healthier, and more just for all its citizens -- now and in the future!