Eagle-Tribune

ANDOVER — The South Church and its prominent white steeple on Central Street have had a powerful presence in downtown Andover for over 152 years.

Now, its congregation hopes to make a statement on its environmental stewardship by installing solar panels on the southside of the historic building's roof.

The plan to enter a power purchase agreement with Brookline-based Great Green Enterprises was approved in April during a special congregational meeting. Under the agreement, the company will finance and own the system, while the church will be able to buy the electricity generated by the panels at a lower rate than the utility companies.