EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson And Other Dignitaries Celebrate Florida Avenue Baptist Solar Project
April 27, 2011 -- 
On May 3, Florida Avenue Baptist Church will host a ribbon cutting ceremony becoming the first African-American church in the District of Columbia to be powered by solar energy. In partnership with the church and LeDroit Park LLC, Volt energy LLC, a renewable energy project development company with offices in Washington, D.C., installed the 10 Kilowatt system on the roof of the church. Now the church generates electricity at a significant cost savings and reduces its carbon footprint.
EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson; Rick C. Wade, senior adviser and deputy chief of staff to Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke; Christophe Tulou, director of the District Department of Environment; and Thomas H. Graham, president, Pepco Region, will join senior pastor Rev. Dr. Earl D. Trent, Jr. in commemorating this occasion.
“To be the first African-American church in the District to install a solar power system is a blessing that also comes with a responsibility. We see this is a viable model for other churches to reduce their electricity cost, reduce their carbon footprint and step into the future,” said Dr. Trent. “The future is clean renewable energy. The installation of the solar energy system is the first step in establishing a new green ministry. We will hold workshops for our members on home energy efficiency and sustainability. We also look forward to sharing this blessing and serving as an advisor to the faith community as other churches make this investment.”
The African-American church has historically been on the frontlines of community distress from unemployment to inadequate health care. This solar energy project marks the movement of the black church in a positive proactive manner. This landmark project is already raising awareness of renewable and alternative energy sources throughout the faith based community.
“The church is a mainstay of the African-American community and Volt Energy is proud to be a part of such an historic project, making Florida Avenue Baptist Church a model for renewable energy, energy efficiency and clean energy education," said Gilbert Campbell, III, co-owner of Volt Energy. The solar project was the first phase, now we are working with the church in establishing a green ministry that will educate church members and the community on renewable energy, energy efficiency, electrical vehicles and sustainable agriculture.".”
Journalists who would like to attend and cover the event are asked to RSVP, as space on the church’s roof is limited. Please reserve your seat by calling 202-243-7656 or e-mail, RSVP@thecarawaygroup.com. Due to security, please plan to arrive by 9:45 a.m.
About Florida Avenue Baptist Church
Florida Avenue Baptist Church is a historic church that is located in Washington, DC and has been a leader in the LeDroit Park community for nearly 100 years.
About Le Droit Park Energy, LLC
Le Droit Park Energy, LLC is a private member limited liability company formed by member investors of the Florida Ave Baptist Church and will own and operate the solar system.
About Volt Energy, LLC
Volt Energy, is a solar energy company that is headquartered in Winston Salem, NC with offices in the District. For more information, please visit: www.volt-energy.com