Solar array expansion will further cut our dependence on fossil fuels
by Sister Mary Kabat
Spring 2019 newsletter
As mentioned in the Winter Newsletter, the Sisters’ solar array is undergoing an expansion. Hopefully as you read this, the project will be underway. With the additional solar panels the system will generate half of the electricity used in the Motherhouse.
Five years have passed since the installation of a 112-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system which has generated about 28% of the convent’s electrical needs and has saved the Community about $63,500. It has also spared the Earth and all things living the pollution created by fossil fuel-based electricity.
The expansion will include four rows of modules to form a 98-kilowatt system. It will cost about $229,000. If you divide the cost of the project by the number of panels to be installed one panel costs $817.50. As each panel contains 72 cells, one cell costs $11.35.
We are grateful to have been awarded two grants for the project: Solar for Good ($20,000) and Focus on Energy ($58,932). We are also grateful to friends who have already sent donations in support of this sustainability effort.
If you are interested in supporting this project which blesses the Sisters and all creation, mail your gift to:
Development Office
Sisters of St. Francis
3110 Nicolet Dr.
Green Bay, WI 54311-7212
Donors will be acknowledged at the solar site unless specified otherwise.