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Take the Cool Congregations Challenge

The Cool Congregations Challenge, is an annual national contest to recognize “Cool Congregations” that are becoming energy efficient and sustainable role models within their communities. The contest is brought to you by Interfaith Power & Light, a nonprofit organization inspiring and mobilizing people of faith and conscience to take bold and just action on climate. There are no fees to enter. Deadline for entries, December 15. Get ready to enter the Challenge!

Due to Covid the project eligibility window has been expanded for next year’s Challenge (2022). Projects completed in 2019, 2020, and 2021 will be eligible to apply.

DOWNLOAD THE ENTRY GUIDE  or Click here to choose your entry form

First place prizes for each category ($1000 each)

Runners-up will receive certificates

FIVE ENTRY CATEGORIES

COOL CONGREGATIONS PLANNER
Audits • Planning Reports • Fundraising
•
ENERGY SAVER
Lighting • Insulation • Windows & Doors • Heating & Cooling Systems
•
RENEWABLE ROLE MODEL
Solar • Wind • Geothermal • Solar Water Heating
•
SACRED GROUNDS STEWARD
Native Landscaping • Organic Gardening • Water Conservation • Bike Racks • Wildlife Habitats • Recycling & Composting
•
COMMUNITY INSPIRATION
This includes congregations that inspire congregants to save energy at home.
It also includes congregations helping their communities transition from fossil fuels to clean energy and to become more resilient and prepare for the impacts of climate change.
•

JUDGING CRITERIA

Winners will be chosen by an interfaith panel of faith and lay-leaders, including others with expertise in congregational energy efficiency and sustainability. Each entry will be judged on a combination of factors:

  • 40% — A well-defined project, measurable objectives for climate benefit
  • 20% — Creativity and resourcefulness in executing the project
  • 20% — Congregant and/or community engagement in project
  • 20% — Inspiration factor.

The percentage awarded in each category will serve as a guideline and the judges will apply their knowledge and experience to evaluate and select the finalists and winners.

All entrants will receive an email notice around the end of February.

Entry questions not answered here can be sent to info@interfaithpowerandlight.org. Please allow up to 48 hours for an answer.

The contest is open to congregations of any size or denomination interested in becoming more energy efficient and sustainable.

Projects can take place anywhere as long as they are run through a congregation. That means inside the sanctuary or other buildings, on the grounds, in congregants’ homes, or in the community.

Prize money will be awarded to congregations only, and not to individuals.

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Cool Congregation.