No More Fossil Fuels + Clean Energy as a Human Right = Two things you can do right now!

For our communities to thrive in a fossil-free dream world, we must have robust, equitable clean energy systems that center justice and the lived experiences of those on the front lines of climate change. Focusing on clean energy as a human right elevates just and equitable clean energy strategies like energy justice, energy democracy, community solar, energy efficiency, and more. As many of our congregations are gearing up to apply for Federal funding for clean energy projects, it’s important that we embrace a visionary and prophetic approach that ensures a clean energy future for all - no sacrifice zones! Stay tuned in 2023 as we dig into these issues to help UUs decarbonize our communities, not just our sanctuaries!

UU Ministry For Earth is hosting a special Solstice celebration December 21 that invites us all to pause, reflect, and honor all that life brings. Register here to join.

Transforming our congregations into clean energy hubs

We need to dramatically reduce emissions by 2030 to avert the worst impacts of climate change and preserve a livable planet. It’s critical that we do this work in a way that prioritizes justice. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 44% by 2030. With funds for churches and nonprofits to implement clean energy projects, the IRA is a great opportunity for UUs to reduce our carbon footprint while cultivating communities of care. Now is the time to think big and broad as we consider these clean energy projects in our communities.

How can UU congregations transform to clean energy hubs or centers of community care? Think big!

  • Pair solar with energy storage to offer our buildings as community resilience shelters during severe weather or other emergencies causing power outages.

  • Energy efficiency upgrades in our buildings improve air quality, community health, wellness, and resilience, all while saving money and reducing emissions. Empower the energy wonks in your congregation to work with lower-income housing groups or neighborhood associations to increase energy efficiency in your community.

  • Installing solar or energy efficiency upgrades on our buildings reduces emissions AND saves money we can redirect toward our justice work. Ultimately, these projects generate economic development and jobs, strengthen communities, and create community wealth.

  • As our UU teams become experts on the opportunities (we all will, right?), we can partner with other churches or nonprofits in our community to share the knowledge, learn together, and expand access to clean energy.

We’re here to help!

The UUA is partnering with Interfaith Power and Light, Environment and Energy Study Institute, and the United Church of Christ to develop a series of workshops for congregations throughout 2023. Watch the recording of the Federal Funding Resources for Nonprofits & Houses of Worship Briefing today, and sign up for our Climate Justice updates so you don’t miss a beat - and encourage your friends to as well!

Get your congregation ready!

  • Form (or revitalize!) your Green Team, and launch Green Sanctuary 2030 in your congregation. GS2030 will help you form a balanced approach to climate action, ensuring justice is at the center. Get a good team inspired and ready to go - with regular support from our monthly community meetings that are open to anyone working on congregational transformation through climate justice.

  • Join our Green Sanctuary 2030 Celebration on January 19th to honor the decades of work invested by our congregations and make the commitment to climate justice by 2030!

  • Benchmark your building

  • Get an energy audit from your utility (often they are free)

Resources from the webinar:

Climate JusticeSide With Lovecreate climate justice, Climate Justice