Pope Francis has taken another step towards his green vision for the Vatican by inaugurating a new solar panel roof at the Vatican Museum. This is part of the Pope’s plan to ensure that the city state in Rome runs entirely on renewable energy.
The photovoltaic roof was installed by Italian energy supplier ACEA in just six months in the Courtyard of the Corazze entrance. This is an extraordinary example of how renewable energy infrastructure can be integrated into existing buildings.
The Pope’s green vision was outlined in his ‘Brother Sun’ letter in June, where he stated that solar panels would be installed on a Vatican-owned property outside Rome to supply all of Vatican City’s energy needs. This move is in line with the Pope’s commitment to transition to a sustainable development model and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Vatican’s position on the climate crisis was first stated by Pope Francis in 2015, when he called for renewed dialogue on how we are building the future of the planet. In July 2022, the Vatican joined the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, solidifying its commitment to addressing the issue.
With this new solar panel roof, Vatican City is set to become one of just eight countries in the world to generate 100% of its electricity from renewable sources. This not only fulfills the Vatican’s international commitments, but also sets an example for other countries to follow.
The impact of this move towards renewable energy is significant, as it not only reduces the Vatican’s carbon footprint, but also sends a powerful message to the world about the importance of taking action against climate change. The Vatican’s participation in COP 29, the international climate conference, further highlights its commitment to this cause.
In conclusion, the Vatican’s new solar panel roof is a major step towards achieving its green vision and setting an example for others to follow. It is a testament to the Pope’s strong stance on the climate crisis and his determination to take action towards a more sustainable future.