The Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas was established in 1890 and today serves an area of over 7,500 square miles across Dallas, Collin, Ellis, Fannin, Grayson, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro, and Rockwall Counties. The diocese operates 69 parishes, 2 seminaries, 3 high schools and 26 elementary schools. The Diocese of Dallas is one of the fastest growing dioceses in the United States, whose parishes and five missions serve approximately 1.2 million Catholics and a larger North Texas community of more than four million people.
5’s partnership with the Diocese of Dallas began with an improved electricity procurement strategy that leveraged industry best practices. Diocesan purchasing and financial executives turned to 5 and its proprietary energy market platform to identify favorable times to capitalize on market corrections to make its electricity purchases and lower energy costs. As a result of this strategic approach, the diocese is saving more than $2 million in electricity expenses over the duration of the contract term. 5 was instrumental in incorporating favorable contract language that will accommodate the rapid growth and expansion of facilities that are expected over the next several years. Inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si, this purchase also included Renewable Energy Credits that will offset 50% of the electricity purchased by the diocese.
Cynthia Herndon, the Director of Purchasing said, “Working with 5 has enabled us to not only save a significant amount of money but our partnership has moved us forward in responding to the Pope’s call to be better stewards of the environment and take action against the degradation of the environment and climate change.” 5 has also worked closely with the Diocese of Dallas to begin implementing a Whole Health Energy Plan that extends beyond procurement. This approach includes economic feasibility assessments of various energy efficiency projects, power factor correction studies, construction services, and onsite solar reviews.
5’s partnership with the Diocese of Dallas is one that enables their staff to focus on serving the spiritual needs of the millions it serves across North Texas. 5 is privileged to work with this energy-conscious organization that is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and preserving the environment.
