Community Lighthouse Project Provides Safe Havens During Hurricanes

Equipped with solar panels and Tesla batteries, First Grace United Methodist Church, visible background left, is part of the Community Lighthouse initiative that uses microgrids, a small-scale power s

As Hurricane Helene approaches the U.S. Gulf Coast, concerns about blackouts loom large, especially for vulnerable individuals like 71-year-old Ronald Bailey, who relies on a breathing machine to keep his airways open at night. The Community Lighthouse Project in New Orleans has been instrumental in providing essential services during power outages by converting churches into self-sustaining microgrids.

First Grace United Methodist Church is one of the nine operating microgrids in New Orleans, with plans to expand to 86 across the city and 500 across the state. These microgrids utilize solar panels and batteries to generate and store electricity, ensuring continuous power supply even during severe weather events like hurricanes.

The initiative was born out of necessity, with founding members like Broderick Bagert driven by personal experiences during hurricanes. Bagert's newborn son required medical attention during Hurricane Isaac in 2012, highlighting the lack of safe spaces during emergencies.

First Grace's role as a Community Lighthouse holds symbolic significance, stemming from its formation after Hurricane Katrina devastated two churches in 2005. The congregation's diverse makeup reflects a commitment to community service and resilience in the face of natural disasters.

First Grace United Methodist Church leads with plans for citywide expansion.

Microgrids in churches provide continuous power during hurricanes.

Initiative founded after Hurricane Isaac to address lack of safe spaces.

First Grace's role symbolizes resilience post-Hurricane Katrina.

Microgrids offer refuge with amenities during severe weather events.

Community solidarity and support fostered by microgrid safe havens.

New Wine Christian Fellowship in LaPlace adopts microgrid model.

Financial support from government and private sources drives project expansion.

Solar-powered microgrids offer lifeline during recurrent power outages.

Promising solution for vulnerable areas, ensuring access to essential services in emergencies.

During recent storms like Hurricane Francine, these microgrids have provided refuge for hundreds of individuals, offering amenities like air conditioning, charging stations, and even medical device support. The sense of community fostered by these safe havens has been crucial in times of crisis, fostering solidarity and support among residents.

Other churches, like New Wine Christian Fellowship in LaPlace, have also embraced the microgrid model to assist their communities. With financial support from various sources, including government allocations and private foundations, the Community Lighthouse Project continues to expand its reach and impact in Louisiana.

These solar-powered microgrids represent a promising solution for areas vulnerable to extreme weather events, offering a lifeline for residents facing recurrent power outages and ensuring access to essential services during emergencies.