On Sunday, April 27, 2025, Mt. Zion Lutheran Church in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, hosted an educational session on the house of worship’s process behind the installation of a new 39.6-kilowatt solar array. The congregation welcomed key project partners, including Laurie Couillard from the Couillard Solar Foundation and representatives from RENEW Wisconsin, to join in celebration of this renewable energy achievement, and also to reflect on the church’s commitment to faith, community, and care for creation.

Mt. Zion’s congregation is deeply committed to the values of faith, community, hospitality, and justice, which are reflected in their work across worship, education, outreach, and social justice initiatives. The church has long upheld these values, exemplified through programs such as the Tosa Cares food pantry and its support for MICAH, a local organization dedicated to racial justice. For over 20 years, Mt. Zion has also been a devoted advocate for the inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals and families. A core aspect of carrying out the church’s mission includes its dedication to environmental stewardship by honoring and protecting the earth. This commitment to sustainability is evident in ongoing efforts to reduce energy consumption and give back to the planet. In 2024, Mt. Zion was recognized with an Energy Star award for significant upgrades, including switching to LED lighting, installing programmable thermostats, and weatherizing windows and skylights.

The church has also integrated environmental sustainability into its ministry through projects like an active pollinator garden and plans for a stormwater bioretention basin to manage runoff. Education plays a central role in this green initiative, with church leaders planning forums on solar energy to encourage the community to embrace renewable solutions. The opportunity to transition to clean, renewable energy initiated a new chapter in its story of creation care, enabling Mt. Zion to further demonstrate its commitment to both environmental sustainability and social justice. 

In January 2024, Mt. Zion took an additional significant step towards sustainability by beginning planning efforts to install a 39.96-kilowatt solar system on the education wing of the church’s facilities. The Inflation Reduction Act’s clean energy tax credits for nonprofit organizations accelerated this transition, making the incorporation of renewable energy more affordable. The project received an additional boost from Energy Community Tax Credit Bonuses. Energy Community credits provide financial incentives for clean energy upgrades, particularly in communities impacted by the decommissioning of coal plants, supporting both a green economy and energy equity.

Douglas Johnson, a longtime member and passionate advocate for renewable energy, spearheaded the planning and implementation of the house of worship’s solar project. Johnson, who had installed a 3.72 kW solar array at his own home in 2008, has been an educator and advocate for solar energy. His leadership ensured the successful implementation of the project at Mt. Zion through his partnerships with nonprofit organizations and research into financing methods.

Funding for the solar system came through the generous support of the Solar for Good Program, which donated 37 solar panels, reducing the project’s costs by over $10,000. Additionally, Legacy Solar Co-Op provided financing for the installation through a 12-year loan at a competitive 6.75% interest rate, making the project both environmentally and financially viable. The church has already seen net savings of over $200, with a projected 135% return on investment over the life of the system.

With financial opportunities secured, installation of the system was able to begin in November of 2024. Endries Solar and Electric installed 74 high-efficiency bifacial panels with power optimizers, devices that maximize each panel’s energy production by adjusting performance based on conditions like shading or cloud cover, ensuring the system operates at optimal efficiency. By December of 2024, the church was able to begin harnessing the power of the sun through its new 39.96 kW solar system. By incorporating clean energy into its daily operations, Mt. Zion’s efforts epitomize how faith communities and other nonprofits can lead the way in a sustainable future for Wisconsinites. Mt. Zion’s careful monitoring of its solar system performance highlights the potential of clean energy. In April alone, the system offset 52% of the church’s energy usage, helping to support its core programs with greater financial stability.

This solar project showcases how faith communities can lead the way in Wisconsin’s clean energy transition. By integrating sustainability into its operations, Mt. Zion has not only reduced energy costs but also showcased that faith and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. The solar array is just one part of the church’s broader commitment to caring for God’s creation and supporting its community. The celebration of the Gift of Light is not just about the energy generated by the solar panels; it is a reflection of hope, faith, and a commitment to building a sustainable future for all. As other churches and organizations look to Mt. Zion as a model, this project demonstrates how renewable energy investments can align with core values of stewardship, justice, and care for creation.

On Earth Day 2025, Agrace, a community-based healthcare organization dedicated to providing personalized care and support to individuals facing serious health challenges, celebrated a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainability. Agrace unveiled its 510-kilowatt solar array, symbolizing its dedication to environmental stewardship and its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2025. This achievement was made possible through Agrace’s partnership with RENEW Wisconsin and the Couillard Solar Foundation’s Solar for Good program and Full Spectrum Solar.

The unveiling event brought together key interested parties, including Jackie Harrison-Jewell, Executive Director of the Couillard Solar Foundation, Jamie Moen, Agrace’s Chief Operating Officer, and representatives from RENEW Wisconsin. The occasion marked the launch of the solar system and highlighted Agrace’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility, demonstrating how clean energy solutions can benefit both the environment and the community.

For more than 45 years, Agrace has been at the forefront of providing compassionate care across Southcentral Wisconsin. Its mission to help people live better during treatment for serious illness, care for elderly loved ones, and support individuals after a loss has always been central to the organization’s purpose. In 2021, Agrace launched a strategic initiative to better understand its environmental impact and develop a plan to reduce its emissions, which led to the decision to focus on sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.

The healthcare sector represents a significant opportunity for adopting clean energy solutions like solar. Transitioning to renewable energy not only addresses greenhouse gas emissions on a large scale but also fosters energy resilience, allowing healthcare facilities to continue effectively caring for patients, even during disruptions caused by severe weather. Agrace’s commitment to sustainability sets an inspiring example, demonstrating how strategic actions can lead to both environmental and operational benefits.

Agrace’s first major step in its journey toward carbon neutrality was the installation of a 510-kilowatt solar system on the rooftop of its Madison facility. This system, which went live on August 26, 2024, has the capacity to power more than 60 homes and is expected to offset 20.84% of the facility’s electricity needs. The solar array is part of a broader strategy that includes energy conservation efforts, retro-commissioning of existing equipment, and the purchase of green power and carbon offsets.

The Solar for Good grant program played a vital role in supporting Agrace’s renewable energy efforts. The Solar for Good program helps nonprofit organizations, like Agrace, reduce energy costs and advance their mission.  Thanks to a $20,000 award from Solar for Good in the Fall of 2023, Agrace was able to fund this transformative solar array. Agrace also leveraged additional funding sources, including Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy Program and Direct Pay incentives through the Inflation Reduction Act.

Full Spectrum Solar, the firm behind the installation, was instrumental in bringing Agrace’s clean energy goal to life. The team worked closely with Agrace to ensure the project was executed smoothly, providing valuable guidance on system performance and capacity. The solar array is now visible from various courtyards throughout the facility, allowing both staff and residents to benefit from the renewable energy.

Beyond reducing Agrace’s utility bills, the solar array plays a vital role in reducing the organization’s reliance on traditional energy sources. By producing its own renewable energy, Agrace is able to direct energy savings into vital programs such as Age at Home, Supportive Care, Hospice Care, and Grief Support, all of which serve the local community. Agrace plans to further its sustainability efforts by encouraging staff and residents to adopt energy-saving habits and exploring additional energy-efficient technologies like electric vehicle charging stations, battery storage, and heat pumps.

Agrace’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that small actions, like transitioning to solar energy, can have on both the environment and the community. Through its partnership with Solar for Good to transition to solar, Agrace is not only committing to clean energy but also setting an example for others to follow. By continuing to invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency, Agrace is ensuring that its critical services will continue supporting the health and well-being of the people of Wisconsin while also making a lasting positive impact on the planet.

On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center marked an inspiring milestone in its ongoing mission to honor veterans with the installation of a new 20-kilowatt solar system. This sunny addition is not just a technological upgrade; it symbolizes the center’s commitment to creating a sustainable future while preserving the stories and legacy of the brave community members who have served the United States. The event, attended by community leaders, city officials, and distinguished guests, highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into institutions that hold deep historical value.

Named after Major Richard Ira Bong, the United States’ Ace of Aces during World War II, the Bong Center has been a space for reflection, remembrance, and education. Its mission is to honor veterans by sharing their stories, preserving their experiences, and educating the public about the sacrifices made by those who served. Since its opening, the center has collected over 800 personal stories from veterans and serves as a vital resource for the Superior community. Iconic exhibits, including a fully functional P-38 aircraft, help bring Major Richard Ira Bong’s heroic feats to life, while the Wall of Honor memorializes the names and stories of veterans throughout U.S. history.

With the installation of the new solar system, the Bong Center has made a significant technological advancement, combining its dedication to honoring history with its responsibility to protect the environment. This solar project is the first phase of a broader initiative to create a sustainable future for the center and its visitors. The 20-kilowatt system, expected to provide significant energy savings, was made possible through the generosity of RENEW Wisconsin and the Couillard Solar Foundation’s Solar for Good program, along with an anonymous donor. These financial resources helped cover installation costs and materials, ensuring that the project moved forward without financial strain.

The solar system’s value extends beyond serving as an energy source; it’s a symbol of how historical institutions can adapt to meet modern challenges. Just as Major Richard Ira Bong’s legacy continues to inspire, the Bong Center’s embrace of clean, renewable energy is a powerful reminder that we can honor the past while also protecting our planet. The energy produced by the solar panels will help power the center’s operations, reducing its reliance on traditional energy sources and lowering its environmental impact.

Installing this solar array was not without its challenges, however. Initially, the plan was to place the solar panels on the roof, but logistical concerns related to wind conditions near Lake Superior led to a pivot. The new solution was to install a ground-mounted system, which was approved by the City of Superior in June of 2023. During installation, Carlson Electric uncovered mounds of concrete and blacktop beneath the ground, requiring quick thinking and teamwork to ensure a winter installation. Yet, through the perseverance and collaboration of the Bong Center, Solar for Good, and the donor community, these hurdles were cleared, and the project stayed on track.

By January 29, 2025, the system was live, and the Bong Center began generating its own clean, renewable energy. This success highlights the importance of community involvement in making such meaningful initiatives possible. Executive Director John Gidley, alongside energy advocate John Trochinski and the team at Carlson Electric, played a pivotal role in ensuring the project’s success. Their hard work proved that with determination and collaboration, any challenge can be overcome.

The Bong Center envisions expanding its energy capacity in the coming years, with the goal of providing at least 80% of its electrical needs through solar energy. This forward-thinking approach will further reduce the center’s reliance on traditional energy sources and continue to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The installation of the solar system at the Richard I. Bong Center is a perfect blend of history and progress; a commitment to honoring veterans’ legacies while supporting eco-friendly innovations. 

The solar array, now powering the center’s daily operations, is more than just a renewable energy source. It’s a tribute to the perseverance, ingenuity, and dedication of those who have served our country. It’s a reminder that the work we do today, from honoring our heroes to adopting cleaner energy solutions, helps ensure that the stories of the past will continue to inspire generations to come. By integrating solar energy into its mission, the Bong Center is leading the way for other historical institutions to balance preservation with progress and show that a sustainable future is possible when we work together for the greater good.

On Monday, January 13, Gilda’s Club Madison invited representatives from RENEW Wisconsin, Couillard Solar Foundation, Only in Wisconsin, Glow Solar, and their members to join in the celebration of a monumental achievement. Gilda’s Club with the help of its supporters installed a solar array that will offset 100% of its electrical usage. 

Gilda’s Club was established in 1991 to honor the late comedian, Gilda Radner, with a mission to uplift and strengthen people who are impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities, and breaking down barriers to care. In 2008, Gilda’s Club Madison opened its doors to the Wisconsin community, becoming one of many worldwide affiliates. Over the years, the organization has been a foundational resource for its members in providing free counseling services, social events such as a brunch club, field trips across Dane County, equestrian therapy, and more. 

Glow Solar installed a 31.4-kilowatt solar system. John Reinders, President of Glow Solar shared, “At Glow Solar, we love working with non-profits to design and implement renewable energy solutions that fit their individual goals. In the case of Gilda’s Club, we helped them design and install a system that will meet their goals to offset 100% of their annual electric usage, look great on their building, and continue to serve their clients without worrying about escalating energy costs. The grants from Focus on Energy and Solar for Good help make it a great time for non-profits like Gilda’s Club to pursue their renewable energy goals.”

For many, going solar is a viable opportunity to continue helping their members thrive without having to reduce support for their mission. With the availability of direct pay incentives for nonprofits, organizations like Gilda’s Club Madison are able to enhance their sustainability initiatives and focus more funding toward their mission by going solar. In addition to taking advantage of federal and state funding, the solar project also received support from BIOFerm, Only in Wisconsin (the charitable arm of New Glarus Brewing Company), and Solar for Good, a program funded and founded by the Couillard Solar Foundation and managed by RENEW Wisconsin. 

In reflecting on the long-term impact solar will have on their community, the CEO of Gilda’s Club Madison, Lannia Stenz shared, “We are thrilled to install solar panels at Gilda’s Club Madison, taking a meaningful step toward sustainability and reducing our environmental footprint! This project is a testament to the power of community—thank you to Solar for Good and everyone who made this possible. Your support not only brightens our future but also ensures that Gilda’s Club can continue offering vital resources to those facing cancer, free of charge, for many years to come.”

Beyond solar serving as a responsible financial decision, it’s also an investment in the health and sustainability of Wisconsin communities. In the case of Gilda’s Club Madison, their decision to go solar contributes to cleaner air by reducing carcinogenic air pollutants and offers a promise to their members that they can continue providing support to families and individuals living with cancer. This celebration serves as an important reminder for Wisconsin that when mission-driven organizations, residents, and businesses collectively make an investment in clean energy, they are also making a direct investment into their communities.

On Friday, November 1, Cooperative Education Services Agency 10 (CESA 10) celebrated the completion of its new 124.2-kilowatt solar array during their ribbon-cutting ceremony. Member school districts, Solar Connection, the Green Team, Couillard Solar Foundation, and RENEW Wisconsin joined the event to celebrate this significant milestone. The organization’s commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability in education sets a strong example for school districts and surrounding communities on the benefits of renewable energy and how they can go solar too.

Solar Connection installed a ground-mount solar system consisting of 235 solar panels with 115 panels secured through the Solar for Good grant program. The solar system is set to offset the organization’s electrical consumption by approximately 75%. The successful installation of this project was made possible through dedicated support from the CESA 10 team and support from funding sources. Additionally, the team took advantage of federal and state incentives including the Inflation Reduction Act and Focus on Energy.

Serving 29 school districts and more than 36,000 students, CESA 10 plays a crucial role in offering educational programs and services, ranging from college readiness programs to educational technology and facilities management. Choosing to go solar reflects a key part of their mission in helping schools reduce operational costs so that greater resources can be allocated to enriching the educational experience of students. Its new solar array will not only reduce its own operational costs, but also demonstrate to educators, students, and the broader community the long-term benefits of clean renewable energy.

Going solar is the latest step in CESA 10’s broader sustainability initiatives, but their journey into greater energy efficiency began several years ago. In recent years, they have also undertaken several energy efficiency upgrades including adding LED lighting, improving installation, and replacing roofs of its facilities. Each efficiency upgrade adds up to have a significant positive impact, including lower operating costs and a smaller carbon footprint. With the solar panels recently commissioned, the organization consistently plans to work towards further energy improvements.

Through their efforts, CESA 10 is not only benefiting their own facility but also contributing to a future where solar energy plays a larger role in Wisconsin’s schools. As a leader in showcasing the tools accessible to educators, this project encourages others to consider how they can explore clean energy solutions to enhance their efforts in serving students and having a positive environmental impact.

On October 20, 2024, Sugar Creek Lutheran Church opened its doors to welcome congregation members, nonprofit leaders, and representatives from other houses of worship to explore its new solar system. The new 19.6-kilowatt solar system is set to exceed the church’s current electrical needs by 14%. These savings will allow Sugar Creek Lutheran Church to continue supporting its congregation, provide scholarships to students pursuing higher education, and provide additional community programming. 

The open house featured a tour of its new solar installation, a presentation provided by Solar Project Lead Ervin Schlepp, and materials that outline a step-by-step guide for how other community members and fellow nonprofits can switch to solar energy.  

Established in 1849, Sugar Creek Lutheran Church has been a leader and innovator for the Elkhorn community by providing various programs, including a ‘food in backpacks’ meal service program for two schools, and scholarships for students to further their education. The church’s mission “to witness Christ’s love, presence and acceptance with and for all people” is the foundation of the work they do to ensure a positive well-being for the Elkhorn community. 

As they approached their 175th anniversary, leadership of the church began to deeply consider how they could further impact the community while also excelling in care for the planet. The congregation’s strong connection to the rural land that the church is situated on drove the church’s desire to explore how Sugar Creek Lutheran Church could enhance its energy efficiency. The solar project team identified incentives including the Inflation Reduction Act 30% tax credit and Focus on Energy, which could help make the transition to solar energy a practical and feasible option. Grant programs further assisted Sugar Creek Lutheran Church in transitioning to solar by greatly reducing the upfront costs of installing the array.  

Sugar Creek Lutheran Church contracted a local solar installer company, Adam’s Electric, to install 36 panels. Generous donations from the congregation, in addition to significant grants from the Couillard Solar Foundation and Hammond Climate Solutions Foundation facilitated the development of this project. Through the Solar for Good initiative, Couillard Solar Foundation provided half of the panels needed for the project, and the Moonshot Solar Program funded by Hammond Climate Solutions Foundation contributed $25,000 in grants. By making this project possible through donations from the congregation, Couillard Solar Foundation, and Hammond Climate Solutions Foundation the church will operate on 100% clean energy. 

“In our 175th year of life as a congregation and because of the generosity of our congregation we have the opportunity to provide for the electrical needs of Sugar Creek until we celebrate our 200th anniversary,” said Pastor Dick Inglett. 

Sugar Creek Lutheran Church, and many other nonprofits across Wisconsin, lead by example within their communities by demonstrating how others can benefit through the power of solar by increasing savings and creating healthier communities. Well over 200 nonprofits across the state serve as ambassadors, encouraging communities to embrace clean and renewable energy through the Solar for Good grant program. Each organization reduces its own costs and inspires local residents to consider the positive impact of solar energy, creating a culture of sustainability and well-being in Wisconsin.

On Sunday, October 13, 2024, First Presbyterian Church hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate its new 139.86-kilowatt solar array. This solar project is the largest system in Marshfield, Wisconsin, and is anticipated to offset 71.8% of the church’s electrical needs. Commissioned in September, the array has already produced 18,000 kilowatt hours of electricity,  enough power to completely cover its electric bill for the month, and marks the first of many months to come where the church runs purely off of clean energy. 

First Presbyterian Church is part of a collaborative network, Winnebago Presbytery, and is one of 28 congregations throughout Northeastern, Wisconsin. The church’s mission is to welcome “everyone to our faith journey, denying no one, regardless of their human condition, participation in church life. We are a sanctuary where people are accepted, included, and cared for as they are. As a community based on God’s love, we strive to serve our neighbors and the world.”

First Presbyterian Church’s journey into switching to clean energy began 21 years ago when the congregation chose to incorporate geothermal energy into its facilities. This form of energy production extracts heat from the ground to warm the facilities in colder months or provide cooling during hotter months. To continue its goal of further use of clean energy, the church turned to solar to enhance its efforts. When numerous forms of energy enhancements are combined, the impact of any one form of electrical generation is exemplified. 

On Sunday, the congregation, Church leaders, Northwind Solar, the Couillard Solar Foundation, and RENEW Wisconsin joined for a breakfast celebration and to hear from keynote speakers who helped get this project completed. First Presbyterian Church’s Solar Lead Gilbert Nimm, explained how transitioning to clean energy not only impacts the immediate environment in Marshfield but is ubiquitous in creating positive change at a much larger scale. 

“It became clear that there were tons and tons of carbon that we could stop from going into the atmosphere that affects people around the world,” Gilbert Nimm said, “We are very proud, you should all be proud that there are no fossil fuels being used in this facility.”

This solar project was completed thanks to the generous donations of the congregation through the capital campaign, “Reach for the Sun: Harnessing God’s Gift of Light”, an anonymous donor, Focus on Energy, and Solar for Good. Northwind Solar installed 260 panels at the location, each panel generating 540 kilowatts. Of the 260 panels, 129 were granted by the Couillard Solar Foundation in partnership with RENEW Wisconsin through Solar for Good.  

First Presbyterian joins a community of nonprofits across the state of Wisconsin who are committed to taking on the challenge of actively working to conserve energy. Going solar through Solar for Good is a foundational step in becoming both more conscious of energy consumption and using clean energy to serve communities. The first month of energy production for First Presbyterian Church is just the start of a long road of reduced carbon emissions and savings that can be redistributed into programming that benefits the community.

On October 1, 2024, St. Vincent de Paul welcomed community members, Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, the Couillard Solar Foundation, and RENEW Wisconsin to join in celebration of the Grand Re-opening of the Williamson Street location after the completion of their renovation. The grand re-opening showcased a refreshed retail space, a mural showcasing the history of the Williamson Street location, and a brand new 48.1-kilowatt solar system. This occasion not only marked a fresh start for St. Vincent de Paul but renewed their commitment to serving the greater Madison community through social services and environmental stewardship.

Since 1941, St. Vincent de Paul’s Williamson Street location has played a crucial role in supporting the greater Madison community by providing essential services including food, clothing, furniture, and medicine. The dedicated team has worked tirelessly to ensure that families have access to these resources, making a significant impact in many lives. Last year alone, over 3,500 families received assistance from St. Vincent de Paul.

The generous donations from the Couillard Solar Foundation’s Solar for Good grant and the City of Madison’s MadiSUN Backyard grant allow St. Vincent de Paul to save on utility expenses, contributing to a bright future for the team and the communities they serve. Their new solar array is set to generate 59,600 kWh of renewable energy each year, offsetting their utility expenses by 57 percent. These savings enable their team to focus more resources on providing and expanding social services.

The solar system, situated on the rooftop of the Social Services Suite, powers essential programs that support single adults and families in securing financial stability. These programs help community members maintain financial stability and prevent future homelessness. Additionally, the organization’s microlending programs offer assistance to people facing emergencies and provide a safety net to those in need.

Sustainability is deeply integrated throughout many aspects of the organization’s operations. By offering second-hand shopping experiences, St. Vincent de Paul not only makes vital resources accessible and affordable but also contributes to reducing waste and decreasing demand for new products. Community members who donate these goods play a crucial role in these sustainability efforts, allowing for clothes, furniture, and household items to be reused instead of ending up in landfills. The recent installation of solar panels through the Solar for Good and MadiSUN Backyard grants further exemplifies St. Vincent de Paul’s commitment to building a healthy and resilient community.

By embracing renewable energy, St. Vincent de Paul Williamson Street demonstrates a shining example of providing service to communities effectively while also prioritizing environmental responsibility. The grand re-opening gathered supporters, community leaders, and those who believe in their mission to celebrate the past, embrace the present, and look forward to a bright future that reinforces their devotion to uplift and support the Madison community.

On Sunday, August 25, Blessed Sacrament Congregation and School joined in celebrating the upcoming school year and special addition of its new solar array. Their centennial anniversary marked a new beginning for the congregation in its transition to clean energy and reduced reliance on fossil fuels. Through Solar for Good and an ongoing capital fundraising campaign supported by church members, Blessed Sacrament installed solar that is projected to reduce utility expenses by 12 percent, allowing for financial resources to be further allocated towards ministry, and community service including hunger relief efforts.  

Blessed Sacrament Congregation and School welcomes nearly 300 students annually to provide them with an education that aligns with the pillars of community, study, prayer, and ministry. Its impact extends beyond the students and congregation by servicing the community through hunger relief programs, supporting seniors with home maintenance assistance, and hosting discussions on environmental topics. As part of the congregation’s faith, caring for the planet is ingrained in its mission, education, and ministry. To amplify positive environmental impact and maximize financial resources, Blessed Sacrament initiated efforts to reduce energy consumption by turning to solar. 

In its application for the Solar for Good project, Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church and School articulated its motivation for installing solar panels. “The Earth is not just an accident of the cosmos but rather a gift of inestimable worth. We are called to respond to this gift by honoring the Earth and caring for it,” said Parish Operations Manager, Donna Roeck.

Through support from the congregation and dedicated team, the church worked with Full Spectrum Solar to install 37 panels on the roof of the school. Of the 37 panels, 18 were donations from Solar for Good. This renewable energy source will directly benefit the congregation and students through a clean energy transition. The church has also inspired congregation members to seek out renewable energy opportunities for their own homes through programs such as MadiSUN and Focus on Energy. 

Karen O’Connor, who was part of this solar panel project, shared, “We are working so that Catholic churches and schools can reap the full benefit of the renewable energy programs. We are grateful to RENEW Wisconsin, Solar for Good, and the Couilliard Solar Foundation for helping churches and schools like ours save money and reduce our environmental impact.”

The Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church’s solar installation demonstrates the congregation’s dedication to caring for the planet through environmental stewardship. Going solar is the first major step the parish intends to complete over the next few years, and have plans to increase its facilities’ clean energy impact. Blessed Sacrament’s efforts to conserve energy and educate the community serve as an example of how future organizations can further serve their communities, save money, and contribute to positive environmental change by going solar.

St. Paul’s Lutheran church welcomed hundreds of church members on Sunday, August 18 to celebrate the expansion of its facilities and addition of a 114.48 kilowatt (kW) DC system on the roof of its new gymnasium. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church serves the Onalaska community by connecting people to their faith to learn about forgiveness, love, and hope. This initiative to transition to renewable energy emphasizes the church’s commitment to becoming a more sustainable place for the community. 

Since 1888, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church has been a pillar of the Coulee Region community by providing a place of worship. As the congregation expanded, they relocated in the town and later built a small school to begin serving students in 1974.  Today, St Paul’s Lutheran Church educates over 270 students. With a growing congregation and class sizes, they recognized the need to balance the expansion of new facilities and reducing energy costs. By reducing costs that go toward electrical bills, the church can focus its efforts on worship, continued after-school activities, and resources for education. 

Solar Connection installed 212 bifacial panels on the roof of the new gymnasium where future extracurricular activities and tournaments will be held. The system is expected to offset 65% of the church’s energy usage, producing approximately 135,000 kWh per year. This allows St. Paul’s Lutheran Church to redistribute energy savings by amplifying resources and education to the students they serve. In addition to educating the community about its updated facilities, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church will be able to share the benefits of solar with students through a digital monitor so visitors and students can continue to learn about solar energy.

Through the generous donations of the congregation and grant funding, this project was able to come to fruition, allowing St. Paul’s Lutheran Church to continue its work in educating future leaders of the community. With the church in operation for nearly 70 years, the solar initiative makes significant strides in achieving clean infrastructure for current and future members. By making the transition to solar, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church has made significant advancements in healing the earth through sustainable clean energy.

On Thursday, August 15, Coulee Region Humane Society (CRHS) celebrated the expansion of their animal shelter and the addition of 240 ground-mounted bifacial solar panels. CRHS is based out of Onalaska, centered in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Having reliable and sustainable sources is instrumental to being able to provide energy for veterinary services and day-to-day care for animals. 

CRHS’ vision of acting as a regional leader in enhancing the well-being of wildlife and adoptable pets makes their transition to solar energy a demonstration of the shelter’s commitment to providing the best services for the animals they care for. Their impact extends beyond animals within their immediate care to the Onalaska community.

In addition to providing housing for homeless animals, the humane society also offers dog training programs, and reduced fees for veterinary services to increase accessibility to veterinary care, and wildlife rehabilitation. If you ever find yourself at the humane society, you may also meet Flower, their de-scented skunk who helps with educational programming for youth!

To be able to focus the organization’s resources on animals, CRHS turned to solar technology. The nonprofit requires a significant amount of energy to ensure that all animals within their care receive optimal shelter by cleaning the laundry daily. In 2023 alone, over 2,000 domestic animals came into their care. The savings from their solar array will reduce operational costs and allow their team to prioritize funding to the core of their mission in serving animals that enter their doors. 

CRHS’ new 129.6 kilowatt (kW) solar array, installed by Solar Connections, is expected to cover 80-85% of their annual electrical needs. While their focus is on animals, the humane society strives to make a greater positive impact on the Onalaska community and environment.

With the completion of their solar array, CRHS joins over 200 mission-based nonprofits in Wisconsin that have also decided to turn to clean energy sources with the support of Solar for Good. Through collective impact, these organizations demonstrate leadership in Wisconsin’s transition to renewable energy, creating a sustainable future for all.

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.