We’ve discovered that we can electrify many machines, like cars, lawn equipment, water heaters, and furnaces, more efficiently without the heat fossil fuels produce. The challenge now is finding clean electricity. In Kentucky, 69% of our energy comes from coal, 22% from natural gas, and just 9% from renewables. Our utility companies are balking at adding renewables and plan to build another natural gas plant next year. So, how do we protect our planet, care for ourselves and others, and honor God’s creation?

One way is by going solar. Whether it’s utility-scale solar or installing panels on your roof, solar energy is clean and free once the equipment is paid off. Plus, you’ll avoid sending CO2 into the atmosphere with worldwide consequences. The Inflation Reduction Act offered a 30% tax credit for solar panels. Sustainable Louisville’s Solarize Louisville program allows households to go solar together, supporting the city’s 100% clean energy goals. The program offers bulk-purchasing discounts through vetted installers Icon Solar and Pure Power Solar. Beware of door-to-door solar sales; scammers are out there! You can learn more about the tax credit, if it will be available next year, and find reliable installers by visiting these websites: Louisville’s Sustainability Council and Louisville CAN (Climate Action Network).

Embracing solar energy today is a powerful step toward a cleaner, brighter future for Kentucky and beyond by honoring our planet, protecting our communities, and preserving God’s creation for generations to come.

About Green Chalice Ministry: 

Green Chalice educates the congregation about caring for God’s creation by promoting initiatives that inspire partnership in caring for creation. Please contact us to learn more and join us in our mission to Worship, Grow and Serve – Caring for God’s Creation