Glendale, California
Rooftop solar on Temple Sinai of Glendale
Temple Sinai of Glendale began with a small but important step – getting an energy audit from their utility company and switching their lighting to LEDs – to cut their electricity bill.
But then one of their congregants formed a committee to encourage further action because it was the right thing to do to save the planet. In the desire to live out the Jewish principle of “Tikkun Olam”, to repair the world, the congregation kicked into gear big time.
With the advice and encouragement from the Southern California IPL Director, Allis Druffel who walked them through the California IPL “Energy Efficiency and Solar Resource Guide” they took other steps to further reduce their energy use through efficiency. They replaced their windows with double paned windows, upgraded the HVAC system, and replaced an old refrigerator and freezer with new energy-efficient models. More than half of the members of this small congregation contributed to fund the installation of solar that takes care of 52% of their electricity.
In total Temple Sinai has reduced their carbon footprint by 67%!
Just as the mustard seed grows into a large plant, small beginnings can lead to impressive accomplishments – the trick is to get started.
California IPL awarded them an Energy Oscar in 2012 for Leadership and Renewable Energy and they continue to lead the way to a clean energy future with the actions to reduce their own emissions.
Fundraising campaign poster for solar panels
