Capital Area Chapter - Michigan Interfaith Power & Light

Capital Area Chapter

What is our response, as people from faith communities, to the challenges of climate change and racial injustice? Individually, our houses of worship have already begun to highlight a path to a renewable future. Together, we can do much more! 

Click to see some of our Past Events & Projects!

Project highlights

The Capital Area Chapter of Michigan Interfaith Power & Light (MIIPL) celebrated the completion of a new rooftop solar installation benefiting Lansing Intentional Communities (LINCS), a nonprofit that provides housing and community support for adults with autism. More than 40 guests representing local houses of worship and community organizations gathered on July 12 to dedicate the 5.7-kilowatt solar system, which was installed on a newly remodeled duplex that is home to two LINCS residents. The project was made possible through a partnership between LINCS and MIIPL's Capital Area Chapter, which together raised more than $23,000 to fund the installation

The new solar system is expected to save LINCS more than $1,000 annually in electricity costs, along with an additional $300 each year in utility meter fees, helping keep housing affordable for residents while protecting the organization from future energy price increases. Beyond the financial benefits, project leaders emphasized that the highly visible solar array serves as a symbol of the growing role renewable energy can play in strengthening Lansing's communities and expanding access to clean energy

Upcoming Events

For houses of worship considering solar energy, there are now several affordable pathways to make the transition. Through 2027, eligible organizations can receive direct federal payments covering up to 30% of project costs, making solar more accessible than ever. Michigan Interfaith Power & Light (Michigan IPL) partners with Solar Faithful to provide financing options and guide congregations through every stage of project development and implementation.

Those interested in learning more are invited to attend Solarize Ingham County, a free informational session sponsored by the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association (GLREA). The event will take place on Thursday, August 20, at 6:00 p.m. at Red Cedar Spirits, 2000 Merritt Road, East Lansing. Attendees will learn about group purchasing discounts and other opportunities to reduce the cost of installing solar. For more information, contact Marshall Clabeaux at [email protected]

 

Want to be updated on the latest issues and stay in touch with Michigan IPL-Capital Area Chapter?

Each month, CAC joins Hope For Creation for Calling for Climate Justice, a virtual action event where community members spend 30 minutes contacting their elected officials about key climate justice issues. Join them the first Tuesday of each month - register here

Members of congregations from the Lansing area are joining together to promote transformative climate action in our community. The Capital Area Chapter's efforts currently involve members from:

  • Presbyterian Church of Okemos
  • Okemos Community Church
  • Haslett Community Church UCC, Edgewood United Church (E. Lansing)
  • Islamic Center of East Lansing
  • First Presbyterian Church of Lansing
  • Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lansing
  • All Saints Episcopal Church (E. Lansing), University Lutheran Church (E. Lansing)
  • Kehillat Israel (Lansing)
  • Community of Christ (Lansing)
  • People's Church (E. Lansing)
  • Faith Lutheran (Okemos)
  • Charlotte Congregational UCC

 

New Intern for the Capital Area Chapter! 

Hello everyone! My name is Viktoria Petkovich, and I am the new intern at Michigan Interfaith Power & Light. I am currently a student at Michigan State University, and I’m a political science major on a pre-law track. I’m an Orthodox Christian and a member of the St. Stevan Decanski Orthodox Church congregation in the Metro-Detroit area, which is where I’m from.

The Church has been a central part of my life since my childhood, and my faith has guided me through every stage of life, strengthening my connection over time. I’m excited to explore the relationship between religion and climate justice, and the importance of connecting one’s faith with care for the natural world that inspires advocacy organizations like IPL. I look forward to working with Michigan IPL and connecting with the community.

I'm going to be working with Michigan IPL and the Capital Area Chapter as a communications and outreach intern, collaborating with MSU and the surrounding East Lansing community to increase advocacy and engagement!

photo of Viktoria Petkovich

Interested in supporting CAC’s efforts? Contact David Arnosti ([email protected]) to be added to the email list and get involved!


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