Ohev Sholom The National Synagogue

Synagogue Background Rejuvenated Orthodox Jewish community of 7 years Community of ~250 families and growing Building dates to 1959 Green program launched in 2007 First synagogue to earn the ENERGY STAR (2011)

Energy Efficiency Initiatives Energy audit conducted through Greater Washington Interfaith Power and Light (2008) Focus on low cost/no cost measures to improve efficiency Efficiency measures focused on both physical and behavioral changes

Physical Improvements Benchmarking building utility consumption using EPA’s Portfolio Manager tool Retrofit of incandescent to CFL bulbs and reduction of bulb wattage Replaced incandescent exit signs with LED models Use minimal lighting when the synagogue not in use Use zoned electricity/gas for heating and air conditioning

Behavioral Improvements Educating synagogue leadership, staff, and congregants of the energy efficiency initiative Holding events in the smallest space necessary to maximize energy efficiency Encouraging synagogue employees and congregants to turn off lights for events and holidays where permissible under Jewish law Incorporate efficiency into procurement policies

Lessons Learned Ease of Portfolio Manager tool Assistance of synagogue and maintenance staff essential Role of professional engineer key to process Importance of educating congregants Challenges of documenting improvements and promoting efforts

Contact Information Jen Singer Green Committee Founder Ohev Sholom, The National Synagogue