Congregation of Moses Solar Project

Why CoM is Going Solar

The Congregation of Moses Solar Project is a long-term investment in the congregation’s financial stability, environmental responsibility, and future resilience. In June 2026, the Oversight Board approved the purchase and installation of a rooftop solar system as a practical response to rising and unpredictable electricity costs.

Why Now

Consumers Energy has sought six rate increases in six years, and Michigan residential electric rates have risen 75% since 2008. If current trends continue, CoM’s annual electricity expense could grow from about $14,000 today to more than $25,000 within 15 years.

By moving forward when it did, CoM was also able to take advantage of Investment Tax Credits available through the Inflation Reduction Act. The project is expected to save approximately $40,000 in purchase and implementation costs through those credits.

What the System Will Do

The recommended system is expected to meet about 98% of CoM’s electrical needs on average over the course of a year. In lower-production months, CoM will still draw some electricity from Consumers Energy, while in stronger solar months the system is expected to produce more power than the building needs, allowing excess electricity to be sold back to the utility.

Financial Impact

At current rates, the system is expected to save approximately $14,000 per year. Within five years, those savings are projected to rise to about $17,000 annually if electricity rates continue to increase. The money saved can be redirected to the congregation’s core purposes.

The total project cost is just under $138,000 for a 98-panel system. With rebates already secured, the net project cost is expected to be around $97,000, with a projected payback period of seven years.

Environmental Stewardship

This project reflects Jewish values of Tikkun Olam in action. Solar generation produces no on-site greenhouse gas emissions, noise or air pollution, and the proposal estimates that the system will offset roughly 40 tons of carbon dioxide each year.

Solar panels do have manufacturing, transportation and end-of-life impacts, but a rooftop system produces electricity for decades without fuel combustion. Compared with fossil-fuel-generated electricity, its lifetime greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution burden are far lower.

Project Details

The installation plan calls for 98 Sil-Fab photovoltaic panels made in the USA, together with a SolarEdge inverter and an IronRidge BX ballasted racking system using domestically produced components.

After receiving four quotes from Michigan companies, CoM selected Chart House Energy of Muskegon as the installation contractor.

Reliability and Limits

The panels and inverters carry warranties ranging from 20 to 30 years. An operations and maintenance agreement is included for the first five years, and after that the expected service cost is about $500 per year.

The project does not include battery storage at this time. CoM will remain connected to the Consumers Energy grid, but the building would still lose power during a broader utility outage. Current battery-backup systems are estimated at roughly $60,000 to $80,000 and may be considered later as costs improve.

How the Project Will Be Funded

Early gifts have already raised about $37,000 toward the project. CoM is also pursuing grant funding, and the remaining balance will be raised through donations and other fundraising efforts.

Support the Solar Project

Please consider making a gift to the rooftop Solar Project. All donations are needed and appreciated! This project will help CoM reduce long-term electricity costs, strengthen its financial resilience, and invest in cleaner, locally produced energy for decades to come.

Early donations have already raised about $37,000, and additional support will help close the remaining gap. Donate here, and thank you!