Mission Green Project Update

We have much to report as the Good Shepherd Carbon Neutral Initiative is moving forward!

After a long delay due to supply chain issues, the new 600 amp service entrance was bored into the church from the relocated Alliant transformer.  There are several large electrical boxes now installed on the south side of the Education Wing.

There are now 52 solar panels (21 kW) mounted on the Education Wing and office roofs.  These will begin producing electricity as soon as Alliant Energy turns on the meter.

A new mini-split heat pump was installed in the Annex.  In the 1988 addition, the ceiling tiles were removed, the old ductwork was removed, and all duct register openings are being sheetrocked. The many penetrations (from over the years) through the hallway ceiling sheetrock have been fireproofed, the 3 heat pumps are installed on the south side of the Sanctuary, and the wall units in the Sanctuary are in the process of being installed.

The plan is to have the Sanctuary switched to the new HVAC system by Christmas. This is the priority. The offices, library, bathrooms, Sacristy, and hallways will be completed next.  

Much care and attention are being paid to properly condition the Sanctuary for the long-term health of the organ and baby grand as well as congregants. The small humidifier/dehumidifiers will be replaced with a commercial-grade humidification system, and the new HVAC will dehumidify appropriately. The new air purification system will integrate MERV/carbon/LED UV elements. There will be backup heat in case of extreme winter conditions.

This is a large project with lots of moving parts. While there are currently no “unknowns” that will slow the process, it will still take time. The congregation’s patience with this process is greatly appreciated. The goal is to have the facility be 100% electric by 1/1/2023. After the HVAC work is completed, we can unhook the gas lines.

The final phase: French drain, permeable paver courtyard, pergola, and solar canopy (27 kW), will begin in the spring after the ground thaws.

Jim and Liz Fritz

Mission Green LLC

Questions/concerns? Contact Jim and Liz at: missiongreen@icloud.com

Information about the Carbon Neutral Initiative for Good Shepherd can be found here:

• Good Shepherd’s website: www.goodshepherddecorah.org/missiongreen/
• Jim and Liz’s website: www.missiongreen.llc