The Jewish Community of Amherst (“JCA”), in partnership with PV Squared Solar and PEAR Energy, proudly announces the energizing of its new solar parking-lot canopy, a defining milestone in the congregation’s long-term energy transition. 

Guided by the JCA Energy Transition Committee, the project represents a thoughtful and proactive response to the climate crisis, one that aligns ecological responsibility with the congregation’s identity and values. Rather than acting out of financial necessity, the JCA chose to pursue renewable energy and electrification because it reflects the congregation’s deeply held commitments to stewardship, resilience, and community well-being.

The Committee has been leading a multi-year effort to modernize the JCA campus, replacing aging fossil-fuel systems with efficient electric alternatives and ensuring that the building’s energy needs can be met with clean, locally produced solar power.

JCA’s rabbi Benjamin Weiner wrote, “From the very beginning, this work has grown out of a shared sense of responsibility, to our members, to our children, and to our community. Transitioning to electric systems powered by renewable energy is not only a wise investment in the building’s future, but a moral commitment to reducing our impact on the climate. We hope this project inspires other congregations and households to imagine what’s possible.”

The Committee emphasized that electrification and solar were chosen not simply to reduce utility costs, but to model leadership. The project reduces the JCA’s reliance on fossil fuels, stabilizes long-term operating costs, and places the congregation at the forefront of a statewide movement encouraging houses of worship to take meaningful climate action.

To bring this vision to life, the JCA partnered with PV Squared Solar, a local worker-owned cooperative known for its community-centered approach and technical excellence, and with Pear Energy, a local project developer and asset owner committed to building a green economy. 

“This project encapsulates what we believe in as a cooperative,” said Brittany Hathaway, Marketing & Outreach Specialist at PV Squared. “The JCA didn’t pursue solar because they had to, they chose it because it reflects who they are and the world they want to help build. Being invited into a project grounded in values, clarity, and care has been deeply meaningful for our team.”

Hathaway added, “Solar is a technical solution, but it’s also a human one. When a community steps forward with courage and intention, it strengthens the resilience of the entire region. The JCA is showing how shared values can become real climate action.”

The new solar canopy, paired with the building’s full electrification, positions the JCA as a model for faith communities across Massachusetts seeking to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining long-term financial stability. The project has already sparked increased interest among congregants and neighboring organizations seeking guidance on their own transitions. 

This solar project was made possible through the development, financing, and long-term asset ownership of Pear Energy. Pear Energy works with select financial partners and leading installers like PV Squared to develop, fund, own, and operate renewable energy and energy efficiency projects across the country. Their model is designed to remove barriers to clean energy adoption by enabling organizations to benefit from renewable systems with no upfront installation costs and reliable long-term support.

Pear Energy is dedicated to defending the environment, fighting climate change, and generating good green jobs, and is committed to building clean renewable energy systems and raising energy efficiency standards in communities throughout the U.S. Their investment philosophy centers on creating socially committed, sustainable energy assets that deliver environmental impact while supporting mission-aligned partners, a vision that aligned closely with the Jewish Community of Amherst’s own commitment to climate responsibility.