Solar Project Graphic (1 x 1 in) - guideline revised

Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center Solar Project

Solar Power on Fr General and Fr Febin 2 Large

September 2026 Update:

Our solar installation is turned on! We were blessed to our Superior General from Rome flip the switch! If you would like to donate toward this and other grounds projects, please join the Century Club!

July 2026 Update:

We are moving through the application process for SoCal Edison to turn on the solar, so this project will be up and running in the next few months!

EV Chargers

Feb. 2026 Update:

EV Charging Stations are Installed! They aren't working until the solar installations are connected to our power grid, but this is another step toward completing this important financial and ecological investment.

Fr Mike Fr Febin Br John blessing the solar project

Jan. 31 Update:

Although the project isn't quite finished yet, a group of supporters gathered last week to dedicate and bless our large solar installation! The construction team have finished all of the outside work and are now preparing our electrical room to be connected. The project is predicted to be complete in late February or early March.

Groups at Solar Dedication

The Retreat Center is excited to announce our plan to switch to solar energy in 2025. This move is inspired by Pope Francis' teaching in "Laudato Si," which encourages us to care for our planet; he has highlighted the importance of renewable energy in his encyclical, urging us to reduce carbon emissions and protect our common home.

Here's what you need to know about our Solar Project:

    • We'll install 448 solar panels in two parking areas.
    • We'll have batteries to store energy and provide backup during power outages.
    • We expect to save $100,000 to $110,000 each year on utility bills.
    • The system will produce about 187 KW of power.
    • The total project cost is about $1,300,000. Federal and state incentives will pay for much of this and our wonderful donors have already given a large amount. We still need to raise $300,000 in by May 2026 to complete the project!
    • 4 Electric Vehicle charging stations

"Switching to solar energy is a big step for us," says Filippo Fanara, former chair of our Board of Directors and solar project champion. "We aim to protect the environment and save on rising electricity costs." JNG Power is handling the development and construction, and we expect to start building in summer or fall 2025!

Your support can make a difference. Donate today to help us achieve our solar energy goals and contribute to a cleaner, greener future!