Project HOW

A renewable energy and resilience initiative for faith communities
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What is Project HOW?

Project HOW, led by our Cool Congregations committee, has grown out of their years of work supporting faith communities transitioning to renewables. Project HOW offers hands-on, wraparound support to faith communities—and others—to transition their facilities from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

We call it Project HOW for its focus on houses of worship and because “how” questions invite us into meaningful action:

  • How can we come together to address climate change now?
  • How can we deepen solidarity with those most vulnerable to climate impacts.
  • How...? How...? How...

Through Project HOW, New Mexico faith communities are turning inspiration into action—reducing emissions, boosting energy resilience, and standing with those most at risk.

We connect congregations with expert guidance, technical resources, trusted installation professionals, and financing options to make upgrades, switch to renewable power, and become living demonstration sites—visible hubs of hope and stability.

How can we as people of faith lead the way in care for Creation?

Why It Matters

Caring for the natural world is central to spiritual life and social justice. Because we love life and our sacred earth, Project HOW is rooted in moral urgency and practical action. As the climate crisis accelerates, faith communities have a unique calling: to lead with courage, compassion, and resilience—showing what's possible for a healthier, more just world.

Responding to the Climate Crisis

Faith calls us to care for Creation. By choosing renewable energy, faith communities reduce emissions and live out their responsibility to protect the Earth for future generations.

Improving Public Health

Burning fossil fuels pollutes the air and water, contributing to asthma, heart disease, cancer, and premature deaths. When faith communities turn to renewables, they help protect children, elders, and vulnerable neighbors from pollution-related illness.

Reducing Energy Costs

Renewables lower utility bills, freeing resources for ministry and service. Investing in clean energy is both good stewardship and a wise financial choice.

Contributing to Economic Growth & Jobs

Supporting renewable energy creates local, dignified jobs. Faith communities can strengthen their communities by choosing clean power and advocating for a just transition.

Improving Resilience & Reliability

Solar with battery storage can keep lights on during outages, allowing houses of worship to serve as beacons of hope and safe havens in times of need.

Demonstrating Compassion in Action

Choosing renewable energy is an act of love—for neighbors, the Earth, and generations to come. Faith communities can turn belief into action through this moral choice.

Who is Involved?

The HOW Team: project managers, technical experts, installation professionals, and financing resources for renewable energy projects
Houses of worship already taking action
80+ covenant partners

HOW Can We Take Action?

Each community can choose its own pathway to renewable energy and resilience-based on their priorities
and resources. Actions can be taken in any combination, in any order, or even individually.
Conduct an energy audit

We will provide you with a free energy audit and site assessment.

Improve energy efficiency

Upgrade insulation, windows, HVAC, and lighting to cut costs and emissions.

Electrify your building

Replace gas or fuel systems with efficient electric alternatives:

  • Heat pumps for heating & cooling
  • Induction stoves
  • Electric water heaters
  • EV charging stations
Adopt solar power

Solar provides clean energy and lowers utility bills. Financing options include:

  • Direct ownership
  • Leasing
  • Power Purchase Agreements (PPA)
Pair solar + battery storage = resilience
  • Keeps lights on during outages
  • Powers medical devices, refrigeration, and communications
  • Lays the foundation for resilience hubs
Become a community resilience hub

With solar + batter storage, congregations can be safe, powered havens during emergencies - serving as cooling/warming centers, charging stations, and places of refuge

Project HOW Events

Introducing Project HOW: A Renewable Energy & Resilience Initiative for Faith Communities

Date & Time: October 30, 2025 1:00pm to 2:00pm MDT
Format: Webinar

NM-IPL is launching Project HOW, a renewable energy and resilience initiative that helps faith communities transition their facilities from fossil fuels to clean energy. Join our webinar to meet the NM-IPL staff and partners providing hands-on support and learn how your faith community can take part.

Start Your HOW Journey Today

  • Free energy audit and site assessment
  • Custom plan and financing options
  • Help from the HOW Team
Get Started Now
Ready for an initial conversation about Project HOW with us? Get started.

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