According to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, only about 2 percent of houses of worship in the United States have solar systems as of 2021. This is higher than the 0.6 percent of all non-residential buildings that houses of worship represent.
Implementing solar projects in houses of worship can be challenging due to budget constraints, older buildings, and competing priorities. Additionally, the bureaucratic process of switching energy systems can be daunting for congregations with limited staff.
Furthermore, houses of worship face difficulties in taking advantage of renewable energy tax benefits as they are exempt from taxes.
One solution has been for houses of worship to enter into power purchase agreements with third parties who can utilize tax credits. The recent Inflation Reduction Act has opened avenues for tax-exempt entities like houses of worship to benefit from tax credits for renewable projects through a program called direct pay.
This program offers a tax credit worth up to 30 percent of the installation cost, making solar projects more feasible for congregations. Organizations like Interfaith Power and Light are working to promote the adoption of solar energy in houses of worship to help reduce utility costs and support their missions.
Interfaith Power and Light is a national network focused on climate action and religion, aiming to engage faith communities in environmental initiatives. Despite increasing acceptance of climate change, religious Americans still have varied views on the issue.
Efforts to promote solar installations in houses of worship can help raise awareness and engage communities in climate action. While these projects primarily benefit wealthier, educated communities, they serve as opportunities for education and outreach.
Despite challenges, organizations like Chart House Energy are working to facilitate the adoption of solar energy in houses of worship. Initiatives like Solar Faithful are helping to overcome barriers and make solar projects more accessible to congregations.
Individual success stories, such as the installation of a solar array at the First Lutheran Church in Muskegon, demonstrate the potential for houses of worship to embrace solar energy and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
