The RENEW Wisconsin article “‘Sun-Day’ Service: Emmanuel Community United Methodist Church Dedicates New Solar Array” highlights how Emmanuel Community United Methodist Church (ECUMC) in Menomonee Falls embraced renewable energy as part of its mission to care for the environment and serve its community responsibly. On May 7, 2023, the church held a special dedication ceremony celebrating the completion of a new rooftop solar installation designed to significantly reduce the church’s electricity use and long-term operating costs.
The solar project consists of a 63-kilowatt system made up of 118 solar panels installed by Wisconsin-based company Arch Solar. The array is expected to offset approximately 60% of the church’s annual electricity consumption, allowing the congregation to lower utility expenses while reducing its environmental impact. According to Arch Solar representative Andrew Holmstrom, the system was specifically designed for Wisconsin weather conditions to maximize winter solar production and improve snow shedding. The elevated design helps the panels produce energy efficiently even during colder months with lower sunlight levels.
The article emphasizes that the church’s decision to go solar was driven by both financial and spiritual motivations. Church leaders viewed renewable energy as an extension of their faith-based commitment to stewardship and protecting God’s creation. Doug Walters, chair of the church’s Green Team, explained that the project represents an investment in future generations while also helping the church responsibly manage its resources. Savings from reduced energy bills can support the church’s ministries and community outreach programs for years to come.
The project was made possible through partnerships with several Wisconsin renewable energy organizations. ECUMC received assistance from RENEW Wisconsin’s Solar for Good program, which donated 59 solar panels through funding from the Couillard Solar Foundation. Legacy Solar Cooperative also provided technical guidance, financing assistance, and support during the planning process, helping the church compare bids and select Arch Solar as the installer.
Overall, the article presents Emmanuel Community United Methodist Church as an example of how nonprofits and houses of worship can lead Wisconsin’s clean energy transition. By combining sustainability, financial responsibility, and community leadership, the church demonstrates how renewable energy can support both environmental goals and local service missions.
