Over the past couple months the solar project has been working through a number of steps. In August an online congregational survey found overwhelming support among respondents for installing solar panels on the back roof of Miller Hall and the administration wing. Following the survey an open forum where questions and concerns were addressed was held on August 20. Taking this feedback from the congregation, the vestry decided to have a small subcommittee meet with potential solar companies who had submitted proposals and make a recommendation on the company of choice. At the vestry meeting on September 15, the recommendation of the subcommittee was presented to the full vestry and a motion was passed to enlist Rhino Renewables Solar and Electric in conducting an engineering study. This study examines the building to ensure it is structurally and electrically capable of handling a solar panel system. The study also initiates the interconnection process with Duke Energy to gain their approval of the system. Once the engineering study is completed, the findings will be reviewed by the vestry and they will then discern and vote on whether to enter into a contract with Rhino for the system final design and installation.

For some, the process laid out above may seem very fast. The reason for the urgency is to ensure the church, if it decides to pursue solar, is able to take advantage of the federal investment tax credit, which is 30 percent of the total project cost. This money will come back to the church even though we are a nonprofit organization.

Most important, however, is the role St. Philip’s will play in doing our small part as good stewards of God’s Creation. The proposed solar system will not only supply about half of the church’s electrical needs, over the next 20 years, it will also save over 730 tons of carbon that would be otherwise put into our struggling climate system. The church has always been called upon to be an example to the world. Joining the renewable energy community, allows St. Philip’s to realize God’s call to be faithful stewards of Creation and to serve as an example to the larger community. Pray for the vestry and leadership of St. Philip’s as we discern the path forward.