FACS’ Solar Sanctuaries program aims to make the concept of resilience hubs a reality on the ground in Virginia. We will leverage the power of faith communities to install solar and battery backup systems on faith buildings, primarily in rural and low-income communities. Our success will serve as a national model to inspire faith communities and networks across the country. Solar Sanctuaries will save lives during a time of increasingly adverse climate events and public health risks.
Faith communities can play a crucial role in resilience as extreme weather and the risk of prolonged power outages increase. As a Solar Sanctuary — with solar and battery backup systems keeping the lights on, refrigerators cooling food, and HVAC systems running — faith buildings can become a place of refuge for all who require shelter and sustenance. Lower income communities, people of color, the elderly, pregnant women, the disabled and children are particularly at risk of temperature-related health emergencies and death. These projects will save lives in the face of an increasingly unstable climate.