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.