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Solar Power Project |
The solar panels were installed in April 2022 and started generating electricity on June 7, 2022. These are some Frequently Asked Questions we’ve heard that we hope will help everyone understand this exciting public commitment Immanuel has made to our Creation Care ministry.
1. Question: Why are we going solar?
Answer: To show a visible and public commitment to Creation Care, and to show ourselves and our community we believe in being true and faithful stewards of “this fragile earth, our island home” — that we understand the importance of setting an example to our children and our community to reduce carbon emissions.
We have a cross above our church to signal our commitment to the teachings of Christ—having solar panels on our roof shows a public commitment that we are taking action to reduce carbon emissions—and we hope others will follow.
Another benefit of going solar is to save the church an estimated $6500 every year in electricity bills, (based on 2019 electricity rates). The price of electricity purchased from our provider, Dominion Energy, rose by more than 20% in the 15 years prior to 2020, so going solar will also help shield the church from future electricity price hikes.
Finally, Immanuel has registered our solar system to receive additional revenue through the new Virginia SREC initiative, part of the Virginia Clean Economy Act passed in 2020. Solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) are a performance-based incentive that let a solar system’s owner earn additional income from solar electricity generation. Immanuel expects to receive approximately $3,100 (or more) per year of SREC income. Immanuel received $ 3,146.70 for the solar electricity generated by our panels between January and December 2023.
2. Question: Who owns the solar panels installed on the roof of the Zabriskie Chapel and Parish Hall (Zabriskie Complex)?
Answer: Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill owns the solar system – from Day 1. Immanuel will continue to purchase some electricity from Dominion Energy, but the church’s solar panels will generate the majority of electricity it needs each year -- for at least 25 years and maybe longer!
3. Question: What has been installed?
Answer: Sustainable Energy Systems (SES), a well-known and reputable solar firm based in Frederick, MD, installed 191 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels that are expected to generate at least 65,000 kWh annually, which represents 65 % of the electricity used by Zabriskie Complex each year. The solar panels are commercial grade 445-Watt PVs – which is currently top of the line for power generation.
4. Question: Where are the solar panels installed?
Answer: On the roof of Zabriskie Complex—each of the four major rooftop spaces hosts solar panels. They are visible especially on the north and east rooftops as people drive along Seminary Road or approach the church from Quaker Lane. In addition to being the most optimal place to generate electricity, rooftop hosting also makes the panels a visible commitment to our Creation Care ministry.
5. Question: When were the solar panels installed?
Answer: Sustainable Energy Solutions (SES) completed installation of the 191 445-W solar PV panels on Immanuel’s Zabriskie Chapel/Parish Hall in April 2022. The installation proceeded on time, at expected cost, and with no unplanned changes! The critter control devices were also installed and supporting rails cut to match the profile of the collectors. Additional required steps included an inspection by City of Alexandria, installation by Dominion Energy of a “net meter”, and for Dominion to issue “permission to operate (PTO)”. PTO was issued June 7, 2022, the first day our solar panels began generating power in a net metering relationship with Dominion.
6. Question: How much did it cost and how did we finance the solar system? Is there a “payback” period?
Answer: Immanuel parishioners donated the funds needed for the church to purchase and install the solar system—none of the costs for the solar system came out of the church’s operating budget or existing structures. We did not need to finance it, and there is no “payback” period.
After two years of study, during which the Vestry commissioned a successful feasibility study, conducted a bid solicitation process, and engaged in a “quiet campaign” to gauge the willingness of parishioners to fund the project, Immanuel’s Vestry voted to move forward and Senior Warden Kathryn Haskin signed a contract with Sustainable Energy Systems (SES) on June 11, 2021, to install the solar panels on the roof of the Zabriskie Complex. The SES contract base price was $163,000. Once known add-ons were factored in (e.g., “squirrel guards” which cost about $4000, tree work, and required roof repairs), the total cost (including a contingency) came to about $197,000. Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill will forever be thankful to Father Randy Alexander for his strong support and to parishioner Doug John for his leadership of both the “solar quiet campaign” as well as the actual fund-raising. Over 45 individuals and families from our Parish donated to launch the solar project. As an incentive, one of Immanuel’s pledgers issued a “matching challenge,” under which the first $10,000 of new pledges would be matched dollar-for-dollar!
7. Question: What happens if the power goes out at the church? Does our solar system continue working?
Answer: If the power goes out, we lose power. Our solar system, like most, is “net metered” which means any electricity our solar panels generate that is not first used by our church building, automatically flows back into the power grid operated by Dominion Energy; we are not storing it.
When the building needs electricity but is not generating it – at night, for example – power flows from Dominion’s grid to the church building, like it always has.
For the excess electricity we generate and send to the grid, Dominion Energy gives us credit and charges us for the power we pull from the grid when we are not generating. This back – and - forth flow of power gets measured once a month. Dominion Energy then bills the “net” amount/cost owed when the monthly measurement is taken. Net metered systems use the power grid for storage. Because it’s set up this way (with no on-site storage), if an external event (storm, wind, etc.) causes the church building to lose power, we will lose power and our net-metered solar system will not generate any electricity.
Solar systems with on-site storage through large batteries have become available in the last few years; but they are far more expensive than net-metered systems. Over time, as battery technology improves and prices for battery storage come down, that might be something to consider. The good news is the church seldom loses power!
8. Question: What about the church’s roof structure – are there any concerns about that?
Answer: The Zabriskie Complex roof was inspected in 2020 by one of the solar companies competing for the contract and again by SES this past Summer. In both cases, the interior roof structure (think attic rafters and joists) was deemed structurally sound and sufficient to support the solar panel array. The roof was replaced in 2013, so its age is not considered a relevant factor. In fact, solar panels act as a protective layer on the roof and may result in a greater roof longevity. We have also purchased a “critter guard” to prevent squirrels from getting into the panel area. In preparation for the solar installation, the Wardens engaged DBS Roofing to inspect the roof, which they installed in 2013. The roof condition, while sound, needed some additional work to re-secure a limited area of roof decking, replace and reseal the chapel's skylight covers, replace damaged shingles, and reseal the chimney flashing prior to installation of the panels. The Wardens also authorized additional steeple repairs to replace rotted wood and peeling paint in advance of the solar array installation. Because of the proposed location of the panels, the steeple will remain accessible when further repairs are required. With these changes, our roof was ready to support the solar panels.
9. Question: Do the trees around the Parish Hall impact the solar panels? Do any trees have to be removed for the solar panels?
Answer: One of the most pleasant aspects of the parish grounds are the many beautiful trees that surround Zabriskie Complex. As stewards of creation, we actively care for our trees—and in fact have recently completed an assessment of how best to protect and keep them healthy. Some of the trees cast shade on parts of the roof; but the generation power and placement of the solar panels will mitigate majority of shading impact.
Trees have a lifespan; for example, the large oak tree in the Pumpkin Patch died and had to be taken down during spring 2021 to preclude crashing during a storm and causing damage to the building.
Likewise, the oak tree just outside the parish hall entrance was damaged severely during a major wind storm several years ago and lost its top. It had been shedding major branches ever since, impacting the parish hall roof and had been targeted for removal for some time. Given its deteriorating condition and additional threat to rooftop solar panels, the Building and Grounds Committee elected to remove it during summer 2021, ahead of the solar installation.
There are also other good reasons to take down trees. The magnolia tree on the east side of the building near the steps leading down to the chapel lower level (near the parking lot) was removed in 2018 because its roots and leaves were clogging underground drains and contributing to basement flooding. The Committee will continue routine tree trimming—which would happen with or without solar panels. As for the many other healthy trees around the complex, we expect to care for and protect them for the rest of their natural lives.
10. Question: Where are the solar panels we are purchasing made?
Answer: We purchased REC Alpha solar panels. REC Group is Europe's largest manufacturer of solar panels, and has offices in Europe, the United States, Asia, and Australia. The company was founded in Norway in 1996 and manufactures its solar panels in Singapore.
11. Question: What is actual annual solar electricity generation (kWh) and costs/savings?
Answer: March 20, 2024 Update: Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill’s solar panels will soon have been operating for two years. The SolarEdge monitoring application measures the amount of electricity generated since the system went operational. Click on this link to see what our solar panels generate each day, week, month, or year: Immanuel Church on the Hill
Environmental Benefits:
As of mid-March 2024, our solar panels
Cost Savings for 2023:
Answer: To show a visible and public commitment to Creation Care, and to show ourselves and our community we believe in being true and faithful stewards of “this fragile earth, our island home” — that we understand the importance of setting an example to our children and our community to reduce carbon emissions.
We have a cross above our church to signal our commitment to the teachings of Christ—having solar panels on our roof shows a public commitment that we are taking action to reduce carbon emissions—and we hope others will follow.
Another benefit of going solar is to save the church an estimated $6500 every year in electricity bills, (based on 2019 electricity rates). The price of electricity purchased from our provider, Dominion Energy, rose by more than 20% in the 15 years prior to 2020, so going solar will also help shield the church from future electricity price hikes.
Finally, Immanuel has registered our solar system to receive additional revenue through the new Virginia SREC initiative, part of the Virginia Clean Economy Act passed in 2020. Solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) are a performance-based incentive that let a solar system’s owner earn additional income from solar electricity generation. Immanuel expects to receive approximately $3,100 (or more) per year of SREC income. Immanuel received $ 3,146.70 for the solar electricity generated by our panels between January and December 2023.
2. Question: Who owns the solar panels installed on the roof of the Zabriskie Chapel and Parish Hall (Zabriskie Complex)?
Answer: Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill owns the solar system – from Day 1. Immanuel will continue to purchase some electricity from Dominion Energy, but the church’s solar panels will generate the majority of electricity it needs each year -- for at least 25 years and maybe longer!
3. Question: What has been installed?
Answer: Sustainable Energy Systems (SES), a well-known and reputable solar firm based in Frederick, MD, installed 191 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels that are expected to generate at least 65,000 kWh annually, which represents 65 % of the electricity used by Zabriskie Complex each year. The solar panels are commercial grade 445-Watt PVs – which is currently top of the line for power generation.
4. Question: Where are the solar panels installed?
Answer: On the roof of Zabriskie Complex—each of the four major rooftop spaces hosts solar panels. They are visible especially on the north and east rooftops as people drive along Seminary Road or approach the church from Quaker Lane. In addition to being the most optimal place to generate electricity, rooftop hosting also makes the panels a visible commitment to our Creation Care ministry.
5. Question: When were the solar panels installed?
Answer: Sustainable Energy Solutions (SES) completed installation of the 191 445-W solar PV panels on Immanuel’s Zabriskie Chapel/Parish Hall in April 2022. The installation proceeded on time, at expected cost, and with no unplanned changes! The critter control devices were also installed and supporting rails cut to match the profile of the collectors. Additional required steps included an inspection by City of Alexandria, installation by Dominion Energy of a “net meter”, and for Dominion to issue “permission to operate (PTO)”. PTO was issued June 7, 2022, the first day our solar panels began generating power in a net metering relationship with Dominion.
6. Question: How much did it cost and how did we finance the solar system? Is there a “payback” period?
Answer: Immanuel parishioners donated the funds needed for the church to purchase and install the solar system—none of the costs for the solar system came out of the church’s operating budget or existing structures. We did not need to finance it, and there is no “payback” period.
After two years of study, during which the Vestry commissioned a successful feasibility study, conducted a bid solicitation process, and engaged in a “quiet campaign” to gauge the willingness of parishioners to fund the project, Immanuel’s Vestry voted to move forward and Senior Warden Kathryn Haskin signed a contract with Sustainable Energy Systems (SES) on June 11, 2021, to install the solar panels on the roof of the Zabriskie Complex. The SES contract base price was $163,000. Once known add-ons were factored in (e.g., “squirrel guards” which cost about $4000, tree work, and required roof repairs), the total cost (including a contingency) came to about $197,000. Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill will forever be thankful to Father Randy Alexander for his strong support and to parishioner Doug John for his leadership of both the “solar quiet campaign” as well as the actual fund-raising. Over 45 individuals and families from our Parish donated to launch the solar project. As an incentive, one of Immanuel’s pledgers issued a “matching challenge,” under which the first $10,000 of new pledges would be matched dollar-for-dollar!
7. Question: What happens if the power goes out at the church? Does our solar system continue working?
Answer: If the power goes out, we lose power. Our solar system, like most, is “net metered” which means any electricity our solar panels generate that is not first used by our church building, automatically flows back into the power grid operated by Dominion Energy; we are not storing it.
When the building needs electricity but is not generating it – at night, for example – power flows from Dominion’s grid to the church building, like it always has.
For the excess electricity we generate and send to the grid, Dominion Energy gives us credit and charges us for the power we pull from the grid when we are not generating. This back – and - forth flow of power gets measured once a month. Dominion Energy then bills the “net” amount/cost owed when the monthly measurement is taken. Net metered systems use the power grid for storage. Because it’s set up this way (with no on-site storage), if an external event (storm, wind, etc.) causes the church building to lose power, we will lose power and our net-metered solar system will not generate any electricity.
Solar systems with on-site storage through large batteries have become available in the last few years; but they are far more expensive than net-metered systems. Over time, as battery technology improves and prices for battery storage come down, that might be something to consider. The good news is the church seldom loses power!
8. Question: What about the church’s roof structure – are there any concerns about that?
Answer: The Zabriskie Complex roof was inspected in 2020 by one of the solar companies competing for the contract and again by SES this past Summer. In both cases, the interior roof structure (think attic rafters and joists) was deemed structurally sound and sufficient to support the solar panel array. The roof was replaced in 2013, so its age is not considered a relevant factor. In fact, solar panels act as a protective layer on the roof and may result in a greater roof longevity. We have also purchased a “critter guard” to prevent squirrels from getting into the panel area. In preparation for the solar installation, the Wardens engaged DBS Roofing to inspect the roof, which they installed in 2013. The roof condition, while sound, needed some additional work to re-secure a limited area of roof decking, replace and reseal the chapel's skylight covers, replace damaged shingles, and reseal the chimney flashing prior to installation of the panels. The Wardens also authorized additional steeple repairs to replace rotted wood and peeling paint in advance of the solar array installation. Because of the proposed location of the panels, the steeple will remain accessible when further repairs are required. With these changes, our roof was ready to support the solar panels.
9. Question: Do the trees around the Parish Hall impact the solar panels? Do any trees have to be removed for the solar panels?
Answer: One of the most pleasant aspects of the parish grounds are the many beautiful trees that surround Zabriskie Complex. As stewards of creation, we actively care for our trees—and in fact have recently completed an assessment of how best to protect and keep them healthy. Some of the trees cast shade on parts of the roof; but the generation power and placement of the solar panels will mitigate majority of shading impact.
Trees have a lifespan; for example, the large oak tree in the Pumpkin Patch died and had to be taken down during spring 2021 to preclude crashing during a storm and causing damage to the building.
Likewise, the oak tree just outside the parish hall entrance was damaged severely during a major wind storm several years ago and lost its top. It had been shedding major branches ever since, impacting the parish hall roof and had been targeted for removal for some time. Given its deteriorating condition and additional threat to rooftop solar panels, the Building and Grounds Committee elected to remove it during summer 2021, ahead of the solar installation.
There are also other good reasons to take down trees. The magnolia tree on the east side of the building near the steps leading down to the chapel lower level (near the parking lot) was removed in 2018 because its roots and leaves were clogging underground drains and contributing to basement flooding. The Committee will continue routine tree trimming—which would happen with or without solar panels. As for the many other healthy trees around the complex, we expect to care for and protect them for the rest of their natural lives.
10. Question: Where are the solar panels we are purchasing made?
Answer: We purchased REC Alpha solar panels. REC Group is Europe's largest manufacturer of solar panels, and has offices in Europe, the United States, Asia, and Australia. The company was founded in Norway in 1996 and manufactures its solar panels in Singapore.
11. Question: What is actual annual solar electricity generation (kWh) and costs/savings?
Answer: March 20, 2024 Update: Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill’s solar panels will soon have been operating for two years. The SolarEdge monitoring application measures the amount of electricity generated since the system went operational. Click on this link to see what our solar panels generate each day, week, month, or year: Immanuel Church on the Hill
Environmental Benefits:
As of mid-March 2024, our solar panels
- Prevented emitting over 164,000 pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, equivalent to
- Planting 1,240 new trees or
- Supplying a year of carbon-emissions-free electricity for 15 houses (per U.S. Energy Information Administration, average annual electricity consumption for an American household in 2021 was 10,632 kWh)
- Generated 72% of the electricity Zabriskie Chapel-Parish Hall needed between January and December 2023—nearly three quarters of the electricity our church needed for the year came from our clean, sustainable solar panels!
Cost Savings for 2023:
- 70 % Savings on Electricity Bills: Even though the church building used the same amount of electricity in both 2021 (pre-solar) and 2023 (12 months of solar), because our solar panels generated 72% of the electricity needed during 2023, Immanuel only spent $2,906.41 on Dominion electricity bills– a savings of $6,808.21 over what we spent on electricity in 2021 ($9,714.62). [Note: That savings would be even greater had not Virginia’s average electricity rates increased 20% between December 2021 and December 2022, per U.S. Energy Information Agency, (mostly due to 2022 price spikes in methane gas and coal).]
- Bonus – SREC Payments: In addition to electricity bill savings, Immanuel receives approximately $3,150/year from the Virginia Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program. SRECs are a performance-based incentive that let a solar system’s owner (Immanuel Church on-the-Hill) earn additional income from solar electricity generation. Immanuel received $3,146.70 for the solar electricity generated by our panels during 2023.
Let us celebrate and cut our carbon emissions wherever and whenever we can!!!