United Methodist Church Launches Solar Program for US Congregations

NASHVILLE, TN — The United Methodist Church has launched a pilot program to help congregations across the United States install solar panels and battery systems while providing training for churches pursuing sustainability projects.

The UMC Solar and Battery Pilot Program was launched by the General Board of Global Ministries’ Environmental Sustainability program and the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) U.S. Disaster Response. Up to 20 churches will be selected, with applications open through November 2 and training scheduled to begin in January.

Participating churches will take part in a two-month cohort focused on developing sustainability projects. Some selected congregations will also receive grants for solar installations, with project viability among the principal selection criteria.

The Rev. Jenny Philips, director of Environmental Sustainability at Global Ministries, said the initiative grew from efforts to make disaster response and recovery more sustainable. Solar and battery systems could allow churches to maintain electricity during power outages without relying on fuel-powered generators.

Philips said the program also aims to help congregations overcome barriers such as installation costs, building requirements, unfamiliarity with the technology, and uncertainty about working with solar vendors. Participants will receive mentoring and peer support as they evaluate whether solar power is appropriate for their properties.

The program reflects Global Ministries’ stated mission of caring for creation. Philips said advances in solar technology provide an opportunity to use energy from the sun while addressing what she described as the environmental effects of greenhouse-gas emissions.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Romanian Orthodox Metropolitanate mobilized relief for Colombia.