A group of United Methodist agencies pledged to achieve net-zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050 across ministries, facilities, operation, and investments. One of the low-hanging fruits that would allow a congregation to join in this proper stewarding God’s earth is through lowering its energy use.

This past September, Broadway United Methodist in Chicago, working with Verde Energy Efficiency Experts, replaced 123 of the church’s light fixtures with LED (light-emitting diode) lights and installed new motion sensors and exit signs. A Commonweatlh Edison incentive program covered the $13,000 cost of the project. The church expects that the new lighting will save almost $1,500 year. 

Though ComEd did not cover the cost of replacing the sanctuary screw-in lighting, Verde agreed to do this for the church for $1,329. 

“I am very happy with their work and their style of work,” said Rev. Alka Lyall, Broadway’s pastor. “They replaced front and back entrance lights and the photo sensors for the parking lot—so the parking lot lights will not stay on 24 hours a day anymore.”

Verde is a contractor in ComEd’s energy efficiency program, which provides funding for LED and other energy efficient upgrades. The opportunity is on a brief hiatus as ComEd prepares for the 2025 program year, but churches can request an assessment now and plan ahead. ComEd customers already pay into the program (see the line item “Energy Efficiency Programs” on your invoices), so why not make use of it?

Switching to LED lighting is a great way to take advantage of the program. Not only do LEDs reduce energy use and cost, thanks to their wattage reduction, but they also create brighter, safer spaces. LED tubes are made of plastic, which means they are unlikely to shatter when dropped. Thanks to their long lifespans, the tubes need not be replaced often, which cuts back on the time folks need to be on ladders to change burned-out tubes and bad ballasts. These bulbs don’t buzz or flicker, making rooms more comfortable to spend time in, especially for those who are sensitive to light and sound. 

For more Information, contact Verde’s Sumner Feary.