Double Solar Celebration at First Unitarian Church of Dallas!
Solar at Our Church in Dallas
First Unitarian Church of Dallas is proud to announce the completion of a new on-site solar energy system, making it one of the few churches in Dallas with its own solar panels. The system became operational on New Year’s Eve 2025, marking a significant milestone in the congregation’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Throughout 2023 and 2024, the church’s Board of Trustees conducted an in-depth feasibility study to explore the installation of solar panels on the church campus. Following this work, a dedicated group of congregants and Board members recommended moving forward with solar power, and the Board approved the project. The resulting installation allows the church to offset a substantial portion of its energy use with renewable power while strengthening the long-term sustainability of its facilities.
Beginning in late 2024, church staff and lay volunteers, several of whom bring professional expertise in the solar energy field, collaborated closely to move the project from planning to completion. While a small number of final inspections remain, along with minor landscaping and the installation of monitoring equipment, the system is fully operational. Church leaders note that these visible changes are a normal part of integrating renewable energy infrastructure into an existing campus.
The church partnered with RISE Power for the installation. RISE Power was selected after meetings with several companies and for its strong track record of similar projects, as well as its participation in Green Careers Texas, a program that supports workforce development in clean energy industries.
The solar energy system is expected to generate approximately 133,289 kilowatt hours per year—the equivalent of powering an average U.S. home for about 12 years or driving an electric vehicle nearly 400,000 miles.
Solar at the Annie Margaret Barr Children’s Village in India
In addition to the local installation, First Unitarian Church of Dallas recently extended its commitment to renewable energy beyond its own campus. Funds from the congregation also supported the installation of a solar system at the Annie Margaret Barr Children’s Village in India.
The new system significantly reduces the need to burn wood for daily chores and bathing, lowering environmental impact while freeing staff time and resources for the care of the children.
Together, these projects reflect the church’s belief that environmental responsibility is a spiritual commitment that can be lived out locally and globally!
