On June 15, the Zen Center of Denver (ZCD), in partnership with RE-volv, celebrated the commissioning of their new 9.7 kWDC solar installation. The center, which was founded in 1974 and moved to a new temple in 2019, will now save nearly $80,000 in electricity costs over the next two decades and avoid the emissions associated with purchasing coal- and natural gas-fired power from the state’s electric grid. The celebration included an open house, food trucks, brief remarks, and solar education and information for participants considering going solar at home.
While Colorado’s sunny skies and favorable solar energy policy make it under the best states for solar energythe state still stands generates most of its electricity using fossil fuels. Research shows that non-residential businesses and nonprofits going solar are key drivers in inspiring state residents to go solar. Furthermore, it is now possible for tax-exempt organizations receive 30% or more money 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 have given me the tools to deal with some very big life challenges more gracefully,” said Joyce McLaren, board member of the Zen Center of Denver. “I am very happy to have helped the Zen Center go solar. The cost savings will be invested in our mission, such as providing mindfulness classes to the community, and there are environmental and health benefits to be achieved by reducing emissions from electricity use. The solar project is a wonderful example of the Zen practice of taking the right action to reduce suffering in the world.”
Under the agreement with RE-volv, a nonprofit solar financing organization, ZCD will save 15% on their electricity bill every month, compared to purchasing power from the utility. Bluecore Solar installed ZCD’s solar system.
“RE-volv is excited to partner with the Zen Center of Denver, allowing them to take the lead in solar energy in their community. Through this partnership, we aim to strengthen the Zen Center’s commitment to sustainability, interweaving their mindfulness teachings with tangible action towards a better, more equitable future,” said Andreas Karelas, Executive Director and Founder of RE-volv.
News report from the Zen Center of Denver
