Rebuilding Broken Places and Greenleaf Church are Taking Power Into Their Own Hands
In a world navigating a changing climate, communities are stepping up, determined to become part of the solution. The transition to renewable energy is not merely a shift in policy or technology; it's an ethos that's permeating through the grassroots, with local leaders playing a pivotal role.
In a compelling Q&A session with Laura Combs, Director of Energy Equity at Eagle Solar & Light, we explore Rebuilding Broken Places' (RBP) and Greenleaf Church’s compelling journeys of going solar with RBP CEO and Greenleaf Church Deacon John Barnes, who oversaw both projects.
* Questions and answers have been paraphrased for brevity *
Understanding the Heart of Solar Community Engagement
Q: How did the idea of solar power first come to light in your community engagement initiatives?
A: The roots of our solar venture lie in the deep desire of Greenleaf Christian Church and its affiliated organization, Rebuilding Local Places CDC, to extend their positive influence beyond their congregation to the local community. The church and the nonprofit united with a common purpose: to undertake initiatives that address both local needs and global concerns, with a keen emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. The decision to adopt solar energy was a logical extension of this vision, aligning with our values as well as our commitment to innovation.
Q: Did you face any skepticism or resistance when you introduced the concept of solar energy within the community? How did you address it?
A: Naturally, any significant transition will elicit various responses. In our case, initial hesitance was rooted in unfamiliar territory. The community, regardless of its desire for positive change, was wary of the unknowns—financial commitments, technical complexities, and the perceived hassle of integrating a new technology into traditional infrastructure.
To address these concerns, we took a transparent and educational approach. We organized community workshops, launched information campaigns, and provided clear, concise resources that explained the economic and environmental benefits of solar energy. We wanted to not just dispel misconceptions, but also empower individuals to make informed decisions.
Implementing Solar Projects: From Vision to Reality
Q: Walk us through the process of realizing the solar project at Greenleaf Christian Church.
A: Ours was a multifaceted endeavor that demanded visionary leadership, meticulous planning, and strategic partnerships. We began by identifying the most suitable areas within our facilities for solar panel installation. We then navigated the intricate waters of project financing, which involved leveraging grants, local incentives, and community fundraising to offset initial costs. An invaluable ally emerged in Eagle Solar & Light, who not only provided the technical expertise but also facilitated the installation through a leasing model, minimizing the financial burden on the church and the nonprofit.
The process was as educational as it was operational. We learned the value of patience and persistence, especially when community-based financing was involved. The end result, however, was a testimony to the power of collective effort, with solar panels adorning our rooftops as a tangible symbol of our collective commitment to sustainability.
Q: What have been the tangible benefits of solar power adoption for your community organization?
A: The benefits of solar power have transcended the abstract and become a concrete reality that touches the daily lives of our community members. The economic savings from reduced energy bills have directly contributed to the sustainability and expansion of our community programs. More children are benefiting from our after-school initiatives, families are accessing affordable childcare, and local entrepreneurs have a community lab to foster innovation.
But the impact goes beyond the operational cost savings. We've witnessed a reinvigorated sense of pride and purpose within the community, as individuals see themselves not just as beneficiaries but as active participants in a larger mission to combat climate change. Solar power has catalyzed a ripple effect of positive environmental practices, inspiring behaviors that extend to home, school, and the workplace.
Charting a Path for Sustainable Community Development
Q: Looking to inspire other faith congregations and nonprofits, what advice would you offer to organizations considering the switch to solar power?
A: The most vital advice is to begin with a strong, shared vision that resonates with the core of your organization's mission. Understand that the transition to solar power is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires a tailored approach that addresses the specific needs, resources, and culture of the community.
Engage your community members early and often, ensuring that the decision-making process is democratic and inclusive. Seek out trustworthy partners who not only bring technical expertise but also share your commitment to community empowerment and education. And finally, be patient with the process, recognizing that the transition is an ongoing journey that requires both short-term victories and long-term dedication.
Q: What role do you see solar energy playing in the broader context of social and environmental justice?
A: Solar energy is a linchpin in the broader narrative of social and environmental justice. It presents an opportunity to address historical inequities in energy distribution and pollution, particularly in underserved communities. By adopting solar power, organizations can reduce their carbon footprint, improve air quality, and contribute to a more equitable access to clean energy.
For us at Rebuilding Broken Places, solar energy is not a standalone initiative, but an integral part of a larger commitment to community upliftment. It's about creating a future where economic resilience, environmental sustainability, and social justice intersect—a future that's brighter and more equitable for all.
Navigating the Future: Innovations in Solar Technology and Community Engagement
Q: As you look to the future, what advancements in solar technology or community engagement do you find most exciting?
A: The intersection of solar technology and community engagement is an area ripe with possibilities. We're particularly excited about innovations that enhance the community's ability to store and manage solar energy. Battery storage solutions, for instance, hold the promise of grid resilience and energy independence, particularly for nonprofits and community organizations.
Q: What is your ultimate hope for the place of solar energy within the Goldsboro community?
A: We hope that our experiences serve as a catalyst for other communities to envision and enact their own solar success stories. By sharing our challenges, triumphs, and the enduring benefits of solar power, we aim to inspire a groundswell of local action that collectively makes a global impact.
The transition to solar energy is not just about harnessing the power of the sun—it's about empowering communities to become architects of their own sustainable future. John Barnes and the team at Rebuilding Broken Places have shown that the path to a greener world begins with a single, sustained step rooted in community engagement, education, and shared purpose. With every organization that makes the switch to solar power, we edge closer to a more sustainable and efficient world.
For nonprofit leaders and congregation members who have been considering the leap, this isn't just an environmental or a financial decision—it's a commitment to your community's well-being and to the planet that sustains us all. The sun rises on a new era of community empowerment, and it's time to harness its full potential.
