St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church – Lewisburg, Pennsylvania

The savings will be used for deficit reduction for the congregation, as well as maintaining outreach programs and community service

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church – Lewisburg, PA

Maggie is senior warden of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church and was a leader in helping the church go solar. 

Why did your church decide to go solar?

The other church leaders and I noticed that our church’s energy costs increased faster than other costs. We knew going solar could help us save money in the long run, plus allow us to further our outreach and provide services to the community. The Inflation Reduction Act meant that now would be as good a time as any to go solar!

What was the decision making process like for your church? 

I put together a “green team” of church members who could help with problem solving and strategizing. Later on, I also organized an event for our chosen installer to share information about solar and provide the time for the congregation to ask questions. After that, the vestry voted yes to move forward with the project. 

What electricity savings have you seen since going solar?

The church saved about $212 in October 2023 alone! The solar panels produced 2,600 kWh, whereas the church only used 2,000 kWh. These savings are substantial, although the church still has to pay a monthly fee to cover our utility’s distribution costs. We pay the same fee as commercial/nonresidential users, even though the church is a nonprofit.

Did anything surprise you about the process of going solar?

The biggest challenge was getting money up front to fund the project. But once the church sorted the finances, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and fast the installation was. The congregation was concerned about preserving the integrity of the cathedral ceiling, but none of their fears have come to pass.

What do you plan on using the savings from solar on?

The savings will be used for deficit reduction for the congregation, as well as maintaining outreach programs and community service. I want to inspire others to go solar and show them it’s possible!