Q: Why do you recommend a self-guided audit as the first step in this program?

A: Many water efficiency recommendations are the same across congregations. There are several types of fixtures that congregations can assess on their own and make upgrades to without the consultation of a professional engineer. This is a more cost-effective way for congregations to assess water solutions and lower their utility bills. 

Additionally, professional water audits are only available to congregations in metro Atlanta. Our Water-Wise guide allows congregations outside metro Atlanta to participate in water efficiency as well.

Q: How do I request a Water Wise Audit?

A: Enrolling in Georgia Interfaith Power & Light’s Water-Wise program can be done online HERE.

Q: Why do you need 13 months of our past water bills before my congregation can receive a Water Wise Audit?

A: The most recent 13 months of water data that you send us before scheduling your Water-Wise audit will allow our professional engineers to calculate your baseline water usage. Later, if you continue to track your water use, your baseline will help you see how the water upgrades you make to your facilities are decreasing your water usage.

Q: Why do I have to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)?

A: The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is a good-faith agreement between your congregation and Georgia Interfaith Power & Light (GIPL). It is not, however, a legally binding document. This document details what is expected of each party when your congregation signs up for Water-Wise.

Q: Where do I send my completed MOU? 

A: Completed forms should be scanned and emailed to Ayesha Abid at ayesha@gipl.org OR mailed to: Georgia Interfaith Power & Light, Attn: Ayesha Abid, 701 S. Columbia Drive, Campus Box 326, Decatur, GA 30030.

Q: Can anyone register for a Water Audit?

A: Our Water Wise audits are currently only available to faith communities within metro Atlanta. If you live outside this area and are interested in a Water Audit, please contact Ayesha Abid at ayesha@gipl.org.

Q: How long does it take to schedule my Water Audit?

A: Once we have received all the requested information, including the congregational background sheet, the MOU, and the past 13 months of your congregation’s water bills, a Water Wise Audit can be scheduled in about a month or two.

Q: Who needs to attend the Water Audit?

A: It is important that one or more persons who have access to all areas of the buildings and who are familiar with the history of your congregation be present at the audit. Other interested congregation members are also welcome to come along on the Water Audit. Some congregations have made the walk-through energy audit a learning opportunity for their leadership, green teams, and youth classes.

Q: What materials need to be available at the water audit?

A: The most important document that should be available at the audit is a blueprint of your facilities. They make it easier to determine the water fixtures throughout the facility.

Q: How long does the Water Audit take?

A: Generally, the on-site portion of the Water Audit will be completed in two hours.

Q: Who performs the Water Wise Audits?

A: A professional engineer will conduct the Water-Wise Audit. We partner with several different institutions to perform the audits, including Southface Institute.