As faith communities, we are not merely bystanders in a transition to clean energy—we are leaders. Guided by our shared values of care for one another and the Earth, we have the potential to drive significant change. By leveraging new federal programs and financial incentives, we can make impactful energy and resiliency improvements that inspire others to follow our lead.

Enacted in August 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) represents U.S. history's most substantial climate and clean energy investment. Its aim is clear: to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 44% by 2030, a significant step towards a cleaner, healthier future.

The IRA offers key provisions, including Clean Energy Tax Credits for wind and solar power, electric vehicles (EVs), efficiency upgrades, heat pumps, and more. And now, the IRA provides a unique opportunity for nonprofits, congregations and ministries to access rebates (instead of tax credits) through the Direct Pay Program.

The Direct Pay rebate available through the IRA is 30 percent of your clean energy project’s equipment cost, and the rebate is paid once the equipment is installed and operational. Your ministry can also realize energy savings for the long-term. 

Partnering with the Mission Investment Fund and the ELCA Federal Credit Union can provide you with the up-front financing you need to get your project underway.1 

Join the increasing number of faith communities that are adopting solar energy benefits. Visit our website for more information, resources, and ways to get started. We are here to help every step of the way.

As a financial ministry of the ELCA, the Mission Investment Fund provides financing for a wide range of building projects for congregations like yours. Whether your congregation is considering taking advantage of the clean energy rebates or tackling other projects on the list, we are here to help. New construction. Renovations. Accessibility projects. Refinancing. We’re here for all of it.

When you borrow with us, you help fund the loans we make to congregations and ministries nationwide.

You can even participate in this good work with an individual or ministry investment that funds the work of this church while earning you as high as 4.40% APY*.