2026-086-E-County Mgr-Solar Equity-St. Joseph's CME Church Solar Project

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Please name the action items from the Chapel Hill Climate Action Plan that best align with your proposed project. (200 word limit) Chapel Hill’s Top 5 Climate Action Categories are Green the Grid, Sustainable Transportation, Sustainable Development, Green Building Retrofits, and Green Infrastructure Resiliency. The St. Joseph’s CME Church solar project, a small-scale renewable energy initiative, supports “Green the Grid” and advances the Town’s goal of net zero utility emissions by 2050. As a community pillar, the Church can help drive solar adoption in LMI neighborhoods. Its 23.4 kW rooftop system will cut reliance on Duke Energy—largely powered by natural gas—reduce its carbon footprint by 30%, and bring the Church close to 50% net zero. W ith an additional energy efficiency or HVAC upgrade, it could surpass that threshold, directly contributing to Chapel Hill’s target of 5% of commercial buildings reaching 50% net zero by 2030. The project also advances climate education under Mitigation and Resilience. SolarEquity, whose mission is to expand solar access in affordable housing communities, emphasizes education and collaboration with local partners. The Church project was proposed during a town hall– style meeting with leaders, ensuring transparency and engagement. A technical assistance packet provided clear, accessible information on energy and sol C2. Do you have another project to add? No Funding Request Summary Please list all proposed projects (please list project name only) for which you are requesting Community Climate Action Grant funding for Fiscal Year 2025-26. Make sure to include a brief description of the proposed use of funds. Applicants will be asked to provide more details on their proposed project budget in the Budget W orksheets linked template. C3. Total Funding Request 28000 C4. Describe your proposed use of funds. (150 word limit) SolarEquity is seeking the final $28,000 needed to complete the St. Joseph’s CME Church solar project. Thanks to prior support, including a $50,000 grant from this very program, we’ve already raised over 60% of the $78,251 required. That initial grant sparked real momentum: not only did it allow us to move forward with permitting and roof planning, but it also ignited excitement and hope within the congregation. This final funding will cover the remaining costs for the solar installation itself, ensuring the system is operational by early 2026. The 23.4kW array will significantly reduce the church’s utility costs and carbon footprint, with long-term benefits for the historically Black Northside community. By closing this funding gap, Orange County will help bring a transformative project across the finish line, one that centers on environmental justice, energy equity, and lasting community resilience. Docusign Envelope ID: F42389BC-2D83-4E00-BC11-D720BFF48873