Would your congregation rather spend money on energy or on the things that matter most?
Since 2015, over 600 faith communities across Michigan have participated in Light the Way, a free program from Michigan Interfaith Power & Light (Michigan IPL) and Consumers Energy that helps congregations save money on utility bills. To date, participating congregations have received an average of $1,300 worth of free energy efficiency products (such as LED lighting, low-flow faucet aerators, and smart thermostats) and expect to save about $650 each year on their energy bills—savings that can go right back into their vital missions. Congregations with Consumers Energy service for electric or gas are eligible to participate.
Since the Light the Way program’s inception, 65 Michigan LCMS congregations have participated and have saved enough energy each year to power over 30 homes for a year. The Michigan IPL estimates that, collectively, these congregations will save about $400,000 over the life of the equipment (conservatively assuming the lighting and other upgrades last for 15 years). This real savings can go back into their vital missions and ministries.
As part of Light the Way, St. Mark, Saginaw church and preschool saved over $4,600 a year on its utility bills thanks to the LED lights and other efficiency upgrades installed at no cost to the congregation.
Zion, Auburn participated in both Light the Way and Michigan IPL’s House of Worship Rewards programs and hosted an energy efficiency workshop led by Consumers Energy. Members were encouraged to schedule their free home energy analysis and, based on the number of referrals, Zion received a check for $500.
Saving energy is a great way for congregations to put their faith into action—to become better stewards of God’s creation while also being good stewards of their own financial resources.
The Light the Way program is available for a limited time and on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information and to sign up, please visit michiganipl.org or contact Jennifer Young with Michigan Interfaith Power & Light at 248.463.8811 or projectmanager@miipl.org.
