New Jersey church converts sunshine into energy

Published: 2006-08-07

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (CNS) -- A little sunshine was all Sacred Heart Church needed to get a big boost of energy. And it's now getting plenty of warm rays, according to Father Joseph J. Kerrigan, the pastor, who recently had solar panels installed on the roof of the rectory at the 123-year-old church. "The panels came right in time for the heat wave, so they are doing their job," he said. "It's a good deal. If there is something new and better for the environment, we as the Catholic Church should be in the forefront of that." Sacred Heart is the second parish in the Diocese of Metuchen to put in solar panels on church buildings. The panels convert sunlight into energy. Father Kerrigan said they reflect the church's concern for the environment and will significantly reduce electricity costs. Sigma Design Co., based in Springfield, installed the solar panels for a cost of approximately $20,000. Sacred Heart will make monthly payments, Father Kerrigan said. No special collections or fundraising drives will be held. However, Sacred Heart is participating in a rebate program offered through the New Jersey Office of Clean Energy. The parish will receive about 50 percent of its total cost for the panels and installation back from the state, spokesman Eric Hartsfield said.

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