Financial and Environmental Benefits of Solar Power for Churches

Is the cost of running your church eating away at your organization’s funds? Keeping the lights on and equipment running takes a lot of power, and that power costs money. But there's a sustainable and financially savvy solution: solar power. Cross Solutions Group is here to guide churches through the myriad benefits of solar energy, from reduced operating costs to environmental stewardship.

Lower Operating Costs

By installing solar panels, churches can generate some or all of their electricity, reducing reliance on utility companies and slashing electricity bills. The money saved can be reinvested into the church, supporting its mission and activities. Over 25+ years, solar panels can drastically reduce or even eliminate electricity costs, providing long-term financial relief.

Avoid Rising Energy Costs

Electricity rates are notoriously volatile and tend to rise over time. Solar panels offer a stable and predictable energy cost, shielding churches from fluctuating utility prices and providing financial stability for years to come.

New Solar Incentives for Non-Profits

Tax-exempt organizations, including churches, can now benefit from a 30% direct pay solar tax credit for non-profit organizations. This incentive significantly reduces the upfront costs of solar panel installation, making it even more financially appealing for churches.

Solar Financing Options with Cross Solutions Group

Choosing the right financing option is crucial for maximizing the financial benefits of solar power. Cross Solutions Group offers expert guidance on various financing options tailored to meet the unique needs of churches:

1. Cash Purchase

• Own the system outright from the beginning

• Receive a 30% direct payment via the non-profit solar tax credit

• Reduce upfront costs by raising funds within the church or applying for grants

2. Solar Loans

• Go solar for $0 down

• Have a fixed monthly payment and pay off the system over time

• Receive all relevant incentives, including a 30% direct payment via the solar tax credit

3. Power Purchase Agreements (PPA)

• Enter into a contract with a solar owner who installs panels on your property

• Purchase electricity at a predetermined rate, which is lower than your current utility rate

• The solar owner receives all relevant incentives

4. Solar Lease

• Lease a solar panel system from a provider

• Use the power generated by the panels and pay a monthly lease payment

• Option to buy out the system in the seventh year

• The lease provider receives all incentives

The REAP Grant: Financial Support for Churches

The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant, administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), is a valuable financial resource specifically designed to support rural churches in their transition to renewable energy. Churches located in rural areas can benefit from this grant, which can cover up to 25% of the total project costs for solar panel installation.

With the expert guidance of Cross Solutions Group, churches can navigate the REAP grant application process with ease and confidence, maximizing their financial savings and accelerating their transition to renewable energy.

Environmental Stewardship

Beyond the financial benefits, solar panels allow churches to demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. Solar energy generates electricity without burning fossil fuels, reducing the church's carbon footprint and setting a positive example for the community. By embracing solar power, churches inspire homeowners and other organizations in the area to do their part for the environment.

Conclusion

Solar power offers churches a dual benefit: financial savings and environmental responsibility. With Cross Solutions Group's expertise, churches can navigate the complexities of solar adoption with ease and confidence. Whether through cash purchases, loans, PPAs, or leases, there's a solar financing option that's right for every church.

Cross Solutions Groups

www.crosssolutionsgroup.com

info@crosssolutionsgroup

612-590-9015