pam June 9th, 2010
Saturday, June 12: Solar Array Dedication
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Soaking up the sun at UPCOB!
Join in a celebration and dedication of the solar project!
You’re invited for music, talk, refreshments, & ribbon-cutting
Mike Tidwell: featured speaker
Mike is an author, filmmaker, and the director of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network.
We expect a large group of neighbors and interested folks to come, and hope that our project will serve as a model for others who might be interested in a collaborative way of supporting the development of alternative energies.
pam June 9th, 2010
June 5, Saturday 10:00 a.m.
Rain Barrels: natural watering
Have you been looking for a way to reduce stormwater runoff, eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, and use less water in your garden? Rain barrels may be your answer!
On Saturday, June 5th, the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB) will give a FREE one-hour presentation on the use and installation of rain barrels.
The talk will take place at the church at 10am, and attendees may purchase rain barrels on site following the presentation. There is no obligation to purchase a barrel from ICPRB, but you must attend the talk to do so.
Because of limited space, pre-registration is required. For more information about the ICPRB rain barrel program and to register, please visit their website (www.potomacriver.org) and click on the rain barrel!
pam June 9th, 2010
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Solar Panels are now covering our south-facing roof, as installation of our new solar energy system is being completed! The 22 kW array covers the entire south face of our roof and is in the process of being connected to new meters.
Envisioned by energy-conscious neighbors in University Park and several of our members, this innovative collaboration will provide alternative energy to cover the electrical needs of the church. We are excited about this way to care for the earth as we work with our community to claim the blessings of the sun!
The project is a joint effort of:
University Park Church of the Brethren, which hosts the array and purchases the energy it produces
University Park Community Solar, a community investment group that owns & operates the system, and Standard Solar of Gaithersburg, which sold and installed it.
pam May 7th, 2010
On Sunday April 24, 2010 UPCOB entered into a historic and hopefully growing movement of agreeing to purchase power in the near future from the University Park Solar LLC. Solar panels purchased by University Park Solar LLC will be installed on the south roof of the church building in the next month or so. Everyone participating in this venture is hoping that this kind of arrangement will be a model for other communities and other churches.
Keep checking back here for a posting on the installation day and celebration Sunday when the panels will be turned on and UPCOB will be solar powered!
Keith Rutter and Hooker Monroe sign the purchase power agreement on behalf of The University Park Church of the Brethren
Of interest: Md. neighborhood funds solar plant at church, By Hayley Peterson, Washington Examiner.com, April 27, 2010.
