New Mexico Interfaith Power & Light (NM-IPL) has launched an ambitious new program called Project HOW (Houses of Worship), designed to help faith communities adopt renewable energy, cut emissions, save energy costs, and prepare for the growing impacts of climate change.
Through this program, NM-IPL provides hands-on, wraparound support with the expert guidance, resources, installation professionals, and financing options faith communities need to pursue renewable and resilience projects.
“Faith communities are uniquely positioned to lead the way,” said Desiree Bernard, Executive Director of NM-IPL. “They can model care for Creation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and become centers of resilience when disasters strike.”
Project HOW provides multiple pathways for energy transformation that can be taken sequentially, individually, or in any combination:
As New Mexico faces rising heat, drought, and fire risk, NM-IPL sees houses of worship as essential community anchors. With solar panels on rooftops, energy storage systems in basements, and open doors for neighbors in need, these congregations can offer both practical relief and moral leadership.
Project HOW offers free site assessments, custom project planning, and connections to funding opportunities.
“Climate change is a profound spiritual challenge,” Bernard added. “Project HOW gives people of faith the tools to respond with both reflection and action.”
Visit NM-IPL.org/ProjectHOW for more information, or to start your Project HOW journey.
