By Jonathan Stauffer, Science Teacher at Forreston (Illinois) Jr./Sr. High School and member of the Brethren Creation Care Network
A transition in political leadership often brings significant changes with uncertain outcomes. The new presidential administration offers new questions and opportunities in how we conduct ourselves as a faith community.
In any transition, it is important to consider the fundamental values that we use to inform our actions. Being stewards of God’s creation, one fundamental value is to be conscious caretakers of the resources the Creator has provided. Methods to make buildings more energy efficient are a route congregations can take to better steward their energy resources and free up some of their operational funds for ministry elsewhere. Members can also look at reducing energy use in their homes and contribute actions that enact stewardship on a wider scale.
Buildings, whether for residential or communal use, are often major energy consumers. Energy efficiency is therefore the starting point for any type of building project to save operational costs and decrease energy consumption. By implementing energy-efficient strategies, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint, lower energy costs, and create more sustainable living and working spaces for the long-term.
Key Strategies for Energy-Efficient Buildings:
- High-Performance Insulation: Proper insulation is a starting point. It prevents heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, significantly impacting energy consumption for heating and cooling.
- High-Efficiency Windows and Doors: Modern windows and doors with multiple panes and low-emissivity coatings minimize heat transfer, reducing reliance on HVAC systems.
- Efficient HVAC Systems: Upgrading to high-efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can drastically cut energy usage. Consider options like heat pumps, geothermal systems, and variable refrigerant flow systems.
- Lighting Upgrades: Switching to LED lighting is simple with new technologies. LEDs consume far less energy than traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs while providing excellent illumination.
- Smart Thermostats: Smart thermostats allow for programmable temperature schedules, optimizing energy use based on occupancy patterns. They can also learn your preferences and adjust accordingly.
- Renewable Energy Integration: Incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels can further reduce reliance on the grid and lower energy costs.
Utility Company Incentives:
Many utility companies offer a range of incentives to encourage energy efficiency. These can include:
- Energy Audits: Free or discounted energy audits can identify areas for improvement and provide personalized recommendations. Utilities may provide a list of professional auditors who work in their service area.
- Rebates: Rebates are offered on the purchase and installation of energy-efficient appliances, such as high-efficiency HVAC systems, water heaters, and refrigerators.
- Tax Credits: Some utility companies may offer tax credits or deductions for eligible energy-efficient upgrades.
- Low-Interest Loans: Financing options can help homeowners and businesses make energy-efficient improvements more affordable.
Energy Savings for Non-Profits and Houses of Worship:
Non-profit organizations, including churches, play a vital role in their communities. Numerous programs are available to help them reduce energy costs and improve sustainability:
- Federal Tax Incentives: The federal government offers tax incentives for energy-efficient improvements made by non-profit organizations. Government agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) have provided resources and guidance for non-profits on energy efficiency. Check these incentives first while they are available. EPA Energy-Star Program, DOE Non-profit Cash Back program
- State and Local Programs: Many states and local governments have specific programs and funding opportunities for nonprofits to improve energy efficiency.
- Non-Profit Specific Organizations: Interfaith Power and Light (IPL) and the National Wildlife Federation are non-profit organizations dedicated to provide faith communities tools in reducing their impact on the environment. IPL’s Cool Congregations program offers resources for decreasing energy consumption in houses of worship and congregant homes. The National Wildlife Federation’s Sacred Grounds Program offers grants for sustainable green spaces in faith communities.
By implementing these strategies and taking advantage of available incentives, we can create more sustainable and cost-effective buildings.
Methods to make buildings more energy efficient, including existing utility company incentives and programs for non-profits, are a route congregations can take to better steward their energy resources and free up some of their operational funds for ministry elsewhere.
Investing towards energy efficiency is a win-win situation, benefiting both the environment and our church budgets. Most importantly, energy efficient actions are an act of worship. It demonstrates our appreciation to God for the resources that have been provided to us through creation. These actions can speak publicly about your faith community’s commitment in creation care. Share your congregation’s story of saving energy as a part of the ongoing advocacy work to steward and protect for God’s creation. Be sure to record your community’s progress and share that when contacting your elected officials to renew programs that protect the environment and natural resources.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered professional advice. Contact your local utility company or energy efficiency experts for specific recommendations and learn about available programs in your area.