Increasing Energy Efficiency and Reducing Carbon Emissions in Our Congregations

By Carl Sigel

In the spring issue of High Performing Building magazine, local mechanical engineer  John Roberts contributed an article, Decarbonization of Building Energy Systems that contains fundamental information needed by congregations and other organizations on how to make their new or existing buildings more energy efficient.  By using the data, it is possible to evaluate the carbon emissions for any building with various energy systems in different states. John wrote the article to help people shift their thinking from saving energy to lowering carbon emissions. He says the two steps work hand in hand, but our present problem is the carbon dioxide emissions and lowering them is critically important. Congregations of all sizes can take steps to lower their emissions. By reading, taking to heart, and using the information in John’s article, they can take a significant first step in being better stewards of God’s creation.

John W. Roberts, P.E., HFDP, LEED BD + C, is a senior mechanical engineer with Dewberry in Raleigh, N.C. He also serves on the NC Interfaith Power & Light Energy Working Group.