Historic Church In Tolland Going Solar

TOLLAND, CT — The United Congregational Church of Tolland Thursday announced that it will be getting solar panels.

A ground-breaking ceremony has been slated for April 10 at 9 a.m. The church is located 45 Tolland Green.

The $200,000 project includes the installation of 121 solar panels and was approved by the church congregation, the town of Tolland, and the Tolland Green Historic District Commission.

Bailey Brenn, the church's solar project director, explained the impact of the project.

"The solar array we are installing will produce over 50,000 watts, covering the annual electricity requirements of the church," Brenn said. "This long-term church investment is intended to allow the congregation to focus its resources on its mission within the church and community."

The Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Gallagher, the church's senior pastor, added, "It was rewarding to work
with the town and its Historic District Commission to create a solution that balances the
practicality of solar installation while maintaining the historic character of the Tolland Green. Not
only does our solar project reduce the church carbon footprint and show our commitment to
ecological justice, it serves as a viable example for other churches in historic districts to gain value
from solar projects.”

Church moderator Mark Miller called going solar, "an exciting project for the church and community,” while adding "It demonstrates the mutually beneficial partnership and value the church and community share."