|
|
Organized by the Northwest Conservation District, the event, which was timed to International Climate Action Day, covered topics like energy efficiency, shrinking the carbon footprint, water usage, green building and green landscaping.
"We're trying to raise awareness and show people all their options," Jean Cronauer, executive director of the conservation district said. "There are incredible opportunities right now for people to conserve energy. We have to reduce our carbon output."
Ms. Cronauer cited the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund, which funds green programs through a state energy bill surcharge.
There are also federal stimulus programs such as the Solar Hot Water program. The program offers rebates of $2,400 to $4,800 through the federal stimulus program.
Several exhibitors made the pitch that this was the year to switch over to clean energy, whether that meant buying a compact fluorescent light bulb or leasing a solar panel roof,
Jason Parauka, a sales person at the Collinsville energy efficient lighting company Techni Art, said homeowners had been switching to energy-efficient fluorescent light bulbs despite the fact the bulbs retail for more.
As for LED (light emitting diodes) light bulbs, Mr. Paruka said the public had yet to embrace the new technology.
"It just hasn't taken off yet because of the price tag," he said.
But Ray Furse, a member of the energy committee and an adviser to Litchfield Hill Solar, said leasing solar panels offers a cheaper alternative to buying power through Connecticut Light and Power.
"This can be confusing, but the bottom line is you will be paying less on day one," Mr. Furse said. "It's a no-brainer."
For more information about the Northwest Conservation District, visit www.conservect.org, or call 860-626-7222.
