Workshops Enlighten Public on How Energy Efficient Church Saves $11,000 a Year

February 2002

Through workshops and training sessions, funded by the U.S. DOE State Energy Program through the Michigan Department of Consumer and Industry Services, other churches and the public are learning how the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Wyandotte, MI, is saving $11,000 a year through energy efficiency improvements. The church, which recently received an Energy Star Community Award, followed a consultant's 1997 recommendations and installed a new boiler, more efficient lighting and air conditioning, and low-flow toilets. Plans are underway to install solar shingles on the rectory garage roof, and a solar thermal system, which should provide two-thirds of the rectory's hot water needs. According to Rev. Charles M. Morris, "The greatest piece of advice we can make to any congregation is to invest in a competent energy audit done by a reputable firm, and then follow through with the recommendations."