First Church is moving forward with plans to install solar panels on the education building, an investment expected to provide both long-term financial savings and environmental benefits for the church.
Earlier this summer, the Governance Board requested support for the project from the FUMC Foundation. On July 21, the Foundation Board approved funding for the solar panel installation, allowing the project to move into its next phase. A contract with Houston Electric has now been executed, marking another important step toward bringing the project to life.
The financial impact is expected to be significant. After a 30 percent investment tax credit, the projected cost to First Church is $162,624. The church is expected to recoup that investment in approximately 11.8 years, with an estimated net cash gain of $176,713 over 20 years. Annual electric costs are projected to decrease from approximately $29,509 to $18,807 once the system is operating.
The solar panels are expected to have a lifespan of more than 30 years, providing long-term energy savings while also reducing First Church’s environmental impact. Financial gains from the use of solar will be designated for additional church programming, allowing the project to support ministry well into the future.
Houston Electric is now working on project plans, with the goal of having installation underway before the end of the calendar year. Stay tuned for additional updates as the project moves forward.
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