Powell Energy and Solar, a regional provider of energy solutions for residential and commercial properties, has completed a solar panel installation for the Unitarian Universalist Church of Cherry Hill (UUCCH). The 438 solar panels - on the ground and on the structure - are expected to reduce the church's electricity consumption by 95 percent.

The 102.9-kilowatt system was completed under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), in which an independent third party finances the installation in part or in whole in exchange for the Solar Investment Tax Credit.

Typically, the customer only has to pay a percentage of the normal cost for the power the system generates. Located on a 17-acre wooded lot off Kings Highway, the UUCCH property includes the main church and sanctuary building connected to the historic 1778 Unitarian House, and two separate religious education buildings. All of the church's structures will draw energy from the solar array.

"This was a satisfying but challenging project to complete, due to the fact the church property is home to a variety of rare species of plants and trees," says Donald Powell, president of Powell Energy and Solar.

"There is also a very prominent weeping cherry on the Kings Highway side of the property, and we were able to keep the tree and otherwise minimize the impact on the property."

"Solar energy significantly reduces our carbon footprint and adheres to our commitment to the environment," says Greg Newcomer, UUCCH President Emeritus and head of its Solar Task Force.

"This process began two years ago when the Task Force started looking at various forms of solar installations, then finally voted to move forward last Spring. Powell Energy was able to deliver in a timely manner while working harmoniously with the church and the grounds."

UUCCH's energy savings will help support and expand the church's many social justice, environmental and community outreach programs, as well as activities for its diverse congregation and visitors. Established in 1956, UUCCH is part of the non-creedal Unitarian Universalist denomination.

The UUCCH solar installation, of which 75 percent of the panels are on the ground and 25 percent are roof-mounted, employs Linuo 235W modules, Unirac ULA racking and Enphase microinverters with monitoring.