Historic Religious Properties Receive Energy Audits

PHLF News
February 16, 2006

In addition to awarding 16 grants totaling $80,300 in 2005, the Historic Religious Properties Committee took advantage of a generous opportunity of a matched grant from Saxer Foundation to hire an energy management and consulting service to analyze the energy consumption and costs of two historic churches. The grant of $2,000, was matched by Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation at the direction of Historic Religious Properties Committee. Mulberry Presbyterian Church in Wilkinsburg, and the New Hope Church in Marshall-Shadeland were selected to receive intensive energy audits.

Gregory Wozniak of G. A. Wozniak and Associates spent several days in each building meeting with maintenance exploring energy consumption, energy systems and operations of both churches. He then produced a comprehensive report with cost savings recommendations.

By initiating these recommendations New Hope Church can expect to reduce their energy costs 20%; saving $2,000 annually. Mulberry Presbyterian Church, with an annual utility cost approaching $42,000, expects to save over $9000 annually.

These are much needed dollars that can be used for other projects in both buildings.

Mr. Wozniak has agreed, at his own cost, to provide an additional energy audit for Old St. Lukes, an historic church in Scott Township.