D.C. synagogue breaks ground with prestigious eco-certification

Ohev Sholom-The National Synagogue in Washington, has become the first U.S. synagogue to earn Energy Star certification from the Environmental Protection Agency.

The certification, bestowed Monday, means the capital’s oldest Orthodox congregation has met strict environmental standards, including energy conservation, recycling and alternative power sources.

Seventeen houses of worship—all churches, according to the Washington Jewish Week—have earned the certification since its establishment in 2009.

The modifications made by Ohev Sholom are calculated to save the congregation tens of thousands of dollars in bills, the Washington weekly reported.

Ohev Sholom was built in 1958 and has 300 family members.