Exciting announcement: Nancy Schneider and Peninsula Temple Beth El have been named the 2025 winners of the Community Inspiration Award at the 2025 Cool Climate Awards, hosted by California Interfaith Power & Light.
In December 2020, Nancy began working with Peninsula Temple Beth El to assess the congregation’s energy needs and develop a path toward solar power, collaborating closely with CIPL’s longtime volunteer and board member Gerald Bernstein. Under Nancy’s guidance, the 224-panel solar array, sized at 100.8 kilowatts, was permitted and operational by October 2022. The solar system has already generated more than 407 megawatt-hours of clean electricity, reflecting Nancy’s environmental leadership and the congregation’s commitment to sustainable, community-driven action. Building on the success of their solar project, the congregation is now working to electrify its HVAC system and update water heaters, further advancing energy efficiency and reinforcing their role as a model for sustainable, community-driven action.
As a leader in Jewish climate justice, Peninsula Temple Beth El is not only reducing its own carbon footprint but also inspiring broader action. Their active involvement in campaigns like Make Polluters Pay demonstrates a commitment to holding polluters accountable and shaping policy for a sustainable future. The congregation also annually empowers young people to translate their faith-inspired vision into real-world impact, bringing their voices to decision-makers in Washington, D.C., and fostering the next generation of climate leaders.
Come celebrate with us as we recognize Nancy Schneider, Peninsula Temple Beth El, and other outstanding climate champions at the 2025 Cool Climate Awards:
Sunday, October 26, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Greens Restaurant, San Francisco
A beautiful evening of inspiration, sustainable dining, and community
See you there!
Cool Climate Award Winner: Trinity + St. Peter’s Episcopal Church