Solar Powered Churches – Has their Time Come?
By Brett Bumeter - 17.01.2008
I’d like to offer up a suggestion to the churches of the world. Why don’t you consider installing solar power panels on your church roofs along with a grid tie in. Think about all those churches all around the world. They typically have very large roofs and surface areas on those roofs. They are typically open for business just a few times per week and do not need to be lit up, powered up, heated or cooled during down times either.
They could gather up energy in the form of solar power, not only to reduce their own energy consumption and expenses, but they could also be used to generate income for the church. A church could probably pay for their investment in solar power much faster than your typical home that uses energy on a much more regular basis.
Plus, many churches are warming to the concept that protecting the earth is something that coincides with the goals of their religion. Removing a church off the grid powered by oil, coal and nuclear power and relying on the power of the sun, could go a long ways in conveying the message to the members of their church just how important protecting the earth is.
You will note that I am purposefully straying away from any specific theology here. I feel that this could benefit all religions regardless of what their theology might be with the possible exception of the Amish (but if I’m wrong and the Amish embrace solar energy please drop me a comment and let me know). My point is not to try and convince anyone to send out their first communion invitations on recycled paper or anything like that. Its just to practically look at this option from the perspective of an investment, a cost reduction technique and a means towards demonstrating and communicating the benefits of solar energy.
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January 17th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
What a wonderful website full of ideas and resources I’ve found here! Thanks, Brett. I’m including you in my blogroll, and will visit often! Can I cross-link to you on solar issue posts? We’re planning to install (w/backwards meter) when we replace the homestead roof, it’ll be a regular Big Project.
Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
January 18th, 2008 at 2:51 am
Hi Aileen,
Sure anytime!
Make sure you get lots of picture (or video) when you get into your project. Would love to see how it comes together.