On Sunday, June 23, Stoughton United Methodist Church held a solar dedication event to celebrate their new solar array, which will cover 92% of the building’s annual energy use and offset 87% of the church’s annual electric costs. As a faith-based institution committed to welcoming all and building loving relationships that serve God, the church offers numerous community programs, including a food pantry, support for Ukrainian refugees, and programs for older adults. These initiatives reflect their mission to be good stewards of their resources.

To maximize these resources and amplify their impact, Stoughton United Methodist Church turned to solar to reduce operational costs and strengthen financial sustainability. The savings from their new solar array will allow the church to reallocate funds into other essential missions and ministries, furthering their positive impact on the community. By installing solar panels, the church also aspires to lead by example for its neighbors, demonstrating their dedication to environmental stewardship and the well-being of future generations.

“Like so many in the faith community, our church is always looking for opportunities to better utilize limited resources,” said Lisa Urban, board chair at Stoughton United Methodist Church. “The installation of a solar array – and the cost savings it’s expected to generate – will play an important role in keeping us financially viable for years to come.”

The church’s new 24.42 kilowatt (kW) solar array, installed by Synergy Renewable Energy Systems, is set to produce approximately 32,632 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually. The influence of neighbors installing a solar array of this size is significant, and Stoughton United Methodist Church exemplifies this idea. As the second church in Stoughton to install solar, they were inspired by their colleagues’ commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and hope to create a ripple effect, motivating others to follow suit.

The completion of Stoughton United Methodist Church’s solar project marks a major milestone in its journey towards sustainability and financial resilience. By embracing renewable energy, they are not only securing their future but also contributing to the broader mission of environmental stewardship and community betterment.

With the completion of its solar array, Stoughton United Methodist Church joins a community of over 200 nonprofits in Wisconsin who have made the same decision with the support of Solar for Good. Together, strides are being made towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.

On Saturday, June 22 and Sunday, June 23, the Catholic Ecology Center hosted a Solar Open House to celebrate their new solar array and other sustainability features in their latest building addition. The events drew community members eager to learn about renewable energy and the Center’s commitment to sustainability.

The Catholic Ecology Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring humanity’s connection to the natural world through education, stewardship, and recreation. This mission is central to all their initiatives, including their latest solar project. Their diverse programming engages people of all ages, from toddlers to senior citizens, with a special emphasis on reaching minority and underprivileged youth.

One of their standout programs is Clare Gardens, an organic farm where volunteers and groups learn about sustainable farming while growing organic vegetables for senior living homes and food pantries. The Center’s strategic location in southeastern Dodge County allows it to serve both rural and urban communities effectively. They also offer year-round recreational opportunities such as snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, and canoeing, enabling people and families from all backgrounds to experience the beauty of the outdoors.

The decision to install solar panels aligns well with the Catholic Ecology Center’s mission to promote environmental stewardship. As an educational facility, it is crucial for them to practice what they preach. This solar project allows them to move away from fossil fuels and serves as a powerful teaching tool to demonstrate the sustainability opportunities available, particularly in renewable energy.

The new addition to their main building includes a 3,500 sq ft space for a welcome area, educational spaces, and handicap accessibility. The facility sits on 60 acres of diverse habitats, including restored prairies, woods, a pond, a creek, a river, and an organic farm. The new 12.8 kilowatt (kW) solar array, installed by Full Spectrum Solar, is projected to produce 16,853 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually and offset 85.3% of their electrical usage. Other energy-efficient measures include geothermal heating and cooling.

“The decision to include solar energy in our new building project at the Catholic Ecology Center was a natural fit,” said Joe Meyer, Executive Director of the Catholic Ecology Center. “Our mission of connecting our faith to a stewardship ethic made solar a visible sign of our commitment to live more sustainably. This also allows us to educate others in doing the same.”

The Catholic Ecology Center hopes that through this project, others will be encouraged to join in their journey towards a more sustainable future. Through their educational programs, community engagement, and commitment to renewable energy, they are making a significant impact on the environment and inspiring others to do the same.