When people think about climate action, they often think about solar, heat pumps, or other major projects. Those investments matter, but they’re not the only opportunities available.
Over the next few weeks, we’re highlighting several practical projects that can reduce emissions, save money, and improve your facilities. These are actions that often get less attention, yet many organizations find they are approachable, effective, and easier to implement than expected. Even better, they are eligible for Adamah Climate Funds, especially the North American Grant.
In each edition, we’ll spotlight one opportunity, explain why it matters, share examples and resources, and help you decide whether it’s worth considering for your organization.
Welcome to the “set it and forget it” category of climate action.
We all get theheeby jeebies when we have to remember to bring layers to go indoors in July or when the lights are on, but no one’s home. Lisabeth, Executive Director of Temple Beth El of South Orange County, was speaking for us all when she said, “every time I walked upstairs and found the room empty with the lights on, my blood would boil.”
And no one enjoys being anudnik or the light police. Thank goodness, no one has to be!
Lisabeth solved their problem, once and for all, with motion sensors! Motion sensors are a low-tech solution that note room occupancy. After a pre-set time without activity, the lights go off. Lights quickly turn back on once movement is detected. Financial payback is great, and the emotional relief is invaluable. As Lisabeth said, referring to her blood boiling from the waste, she is “so, so happy that is no longer the case!”
Also simple to install, and likely to save a generous penny: programmable thermostats. Just like you may have at home, programmable thermostats allow you to preset temperatures based on each room’s use type and schedule. This simple technology provides increased comfort along with significant cost and climate pollution savings.
Fellow Coalition members (and recipients of an Adamah Climate Action Fund grant) have the stats and words to say it all.
Two synagogues that installed programmable thermostats
Congregation KTI (Port Chester, NY)
Saved $3,500 for the year after installing 25 programmable thermostats that cut their use of fuel oil by 20%.
1 of 25 new programmable thermostats
Temple Beth Tikvah (Fullerton, CA)
“Installing our new digital thermostat system has been fantastically easy and has made it simple to save energy for our two buildings by allowing me to schedule as well as override any heating and cooling needs based on unexpected weather shifts and/or programming changes, all from my phone’s application.” — Lauren, Executive Director
New digital thermostat system
Join the Club! Our grants can help.
Learn more:
- Energy Efficiency Resource Guide
- DSIRE: Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
- Search for incentives from your state/municipality or local utility company