Always believe in the power of prayer. I really wanted solar panels on my roof. I had spent time admiring them, researching them, talking about them, and advocating for them. Although I knew they would save me lots of money, I wasn’t sure we could make it work financially, and the federal tax incentives were at risk. So, of course, I prayed.
I recently participated in the Solarize the Triad campaign here in our region of North Carolina. It was an effort to expand solar throughout the region by helping homeowners, businesses, non-profits, and faith institutions install solar by obtaining volume discounts on materials and installation services. Additionally, they could qualify for federal tax credits. I spread the word to houses of worship and hosted events for faith community leaders and congregants to learn about the benefits of solar from both a cost-saving initiative and an opportunity to help take care of Creation.
My church is currently adding solar panels to one of its buildings, as are other houses of worship in our area, as a result of this campaign. They have been able to navigate the financing and have successfully reaped the benefits of saving money, caring for Creation, and serving as a role model for their community. That was wonderful.
But I also wanted panels on my roof. With the support of the Triad campaign and other homeowners, I knew I could work out the financing. The first step was getting our home evaluated. My rooftop was structurally in a good place for solar panels and my electrical system could handle the added burden, but the pitch and shading were a problem. I had too many trees that I would have to cut down. That was not going to happen. No panels on my roof.
However, we decided to move. And during that search, I found a house with a beautiful array of solar panels prominently displayed. I was told that other prospective buyers were not enamored with that display, from an aesthetic perspective, but to me it was just beautiful. Those panels were not only providing me with a solar-powered home, but also with an ability to show everyone who drove by or came by my home that we were the proud owners of a solar-powered home and would be more than happy to share our experience with them.
Not only did the installation come with 12.2 KW solar panels, but also with two powerwalls for storage, an E/V car charger, and a fully electric heat pump. No need for gas. My first electric bill was (drum roll), $23.00. So, not only did I save money, but I had joined the team of other solar home owners who were helping to care for Creation by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering the demand for fossil fuels in an effort to contribute to a more sustainable future. All of which I truly wanted. My prayers had been answered.
Dawn Lewis is an EarthKeeper now living in North Carolina. A longtime United Methodist and member of the WNCC Creation Care team, she has experience in small groups and with organizations that seek good in the world and lends her expertise to the effort.