On June 15, the Zen Center of Denver (ZCD), in partnership with RE-volv, celebrated the commissioning of their new 9.7-kW_DC solar installation. The center, which formed in 1974 and moved into a new temple in 2019, will now save nearly $80,000 in electricity costs over the next 20 years and avoid the emissions from buying coal and natural gas-fired power from the utility grid. The celebration included an open house, food trucks, brief remarks and solar education and information for attendees considering going solar at home.

While Colorado’s sunny skies and favorable solar policies make it among the best states for solar energy, the state still generates the majority of electricity using fossil fuels. Studies show that nonresidential businesses and nonprofits going solar are important drivers to inspire residents in the state to go solar. Further, it is now possible for tax-exempt organizations to receive 30% or more cash back on the cost of a solar system, thanks to changes made by the Inflation Reduction Act.

“My meditation practice and the community at the Zen Center has given me tools to navigate some very big life challenges more gracefully,” said Zen Center of Denver board member, Joyce McLaren. “I am thrilled to have helped the Zen Center go solar. The cost savings will be invested into our mission, like providing mindfulness classes to the community, and there are environmental and health benefits from reducing emissions from electricity use. The solar project is a beautiful example of the Zen practice of taking Right Action to reduce suffering in the world.”

Under the agreement with RE-volv, a nonprofit solar finance organization, ZCD will save 15% on their electricity bill every month, compared to buying power from the utility. Bluecore Solar installed ZCD’s solar system.

“RE-volv is thrilled to collaborate with the Zen Center of Denver, empowering them to lead the charge for solar energy in their community. Through this partnership, we aim to amplify the Zen Center’s commitment to sustainability, intertwining their teachings of mindfulness with tangible action toward a brighter, more equitable future,” said Andreas Karelas, executive director and founder of RE-volv.

News item from the Zen Center of Denver