First Presbyterian Church of San Bernardino (Calif.) has been named one of four recipients of an “Energy Oscar” for its “green building” by the California Interfaith Power & Light (CIPL.)
The church received its award at a gala ceremony here Nov. 15 at Grace (Episcopal) Cathedral.
In a show of solidarity for all those affected by climate change, CIPL works with 540 congregations throughout the state on energy efficiency, renewable energy, education, and advocacy.
First Presbyterian Church-San Bernardino, a CIPL member, has been very active in energy reduction measures and education, culminating in the placement of two solar systems, resulting in a 90% reduction in monthly electrical costs. First Church is located in the “Inland Empire” of California, which is heavily impacted by the transportation goods movement affecting the health of local communities.
Other measures instituted by First Presbyterian Church are energy-efficient lighting retrofits; motion sensor lights; sky lights; solar tube lighting; energy-efficient refrigerators in the food pantry; and tree planting. There is an active Green Team in the congregation, coordinated by church member Roy Nix.