How to help deep energy conservation take flight?
Solar PanelsTied to energy conservationTied to energy conservation
The Grant Basics
• $24,000 for each congregation
• For solar installations – only and all
• Matching funds not required
• Tied to energy conservation…
• And promotion
Benefits
• Savings from solar panels. Last 25 - 40 years.
• Savings from energy conservation.
• Savings in members’ homes
• Pride and profile – media, highly visible
• Community-building – engaging youth
Congregation’s Commitment
• Energy conservation in congregation - 25%
• Energy conservation in homes – 14% in 1/3rd
• Host two workshops, help organize third
• Permanent sign, help with media, publicize
• Simple quarterly reports
Is this level of energy conservation realistic?Very.
Houses of Worship CBS ECC STLC TEC UUB UUI Avg. Electricity 27% 32% 54% 23% 32% 47% 33%
Natural Gas 61% 47% 7% 13% 26% 42% 36%
Members’ Homes CBS ECC STLC TEC UUB UUI Avg. Energy Reduction 22% 28% 22% 29% 30% 30% 27%
Results to Date: First Six Congregations
How to reduce energy use by 25% to 40%? Cut out waste.
• Heat, cool , & light people - not empty spaces
• Plug cracks in building
• Invest in technologies that use less energy:
– Automatic controls: turn items off when not in use
– Cost-effective lighting
– When replacing HVAC units, boilers, & fridges
Achieving the Household Goal is Easy
• Household energy conservation pledge
• Posters & brochure provides guidance
• Youth can help – builds good will & community
• Simple survey to show you did it
Youth weatherizing
a home
What’s needed to apply?
• Securing governing body approval
• Energy conservation plan for congregation
• Energy conservation plan for members
• Monthly energy data – “base year”, 2014
• List of members who pledge
Energy Conservation
Solar Panels
bring the congregation on board…
while
does the heavy lifting.