Those looking for ways to conserve energy and money during these tough economic times didn’t have to go far for advice on making their homes more energy efficient.
More than 160 people attended Tuesday’s 4-County Energy Efficiency Expo at East Mississippi Community College in Mayhew, learning about energy-efficient landscaping, low-income weatherization programs, energy stimulus programs and Tennessee Valley Authority energy-efficiency programs.
“Energy efficiency is something everyone can do. People could find out about what they can do to seal gaps around their windows and doors,” said Jon Turner, 4-County director of marketing.
Turner said during these tough economic times, people everywhere are concerned about rising costs.
“Through this expo,we wanted to help people get started with the means to be energy efficient, and give them the opportunity to meet people who provide these products,” he said.
The event featured booths where local companies demonstrated energy efficient items including insulation, building materials, windows and doors, appliances and much more,
Among the vendors attending the event included Mississippi Solar, based in Philadelphia.
Spencer Pope, a representative of the company, said they have installed solar panels at Northwest Rankin Middle School, as well as poultry farms, businesses and residences in Mississippi.
“This is a win-win situation for everyone involved,” he said.
Allen Cheek, a representative of ProVia, a manufacturer of storm doors, said his company produces energy-efficient products.
“We have been selected Energy Star Partner of the Year the past four years, the only door manufacturer to receive this award. We work with Southern Awning in Columbus who sells our product,” he said.
Along with the displays, there were also speakers giving presentations on topics including weatherization programs for low income families and programs to help communities become energy efficient.
“As the economy recovers, energy consumption will go up. We want to use this as a way to help in the economic recovery,” said TVA Regional Manager David Sparks.
Sparks said TVA wants to work with customers to keep energy costs down.
“We want to work with homeowners and businesses to help them save money. By offering energy-efficient programs now, we can begin to be proactive in helping people save money,” he said.
Sparks said local power companies such as 4-County are an asset in helping put energy-efficient programs together.
“It starts with local power companies. Without them, we cannot do it,” he said.
Ronza Anderson, a representative with the Mississippi Department of Human Services, spoke on weatherization programs for low income families.
Anderson said to find out if someone qualifies for the program they can contact public agenices such as Lift Inc. or Prairie Opportunity.
“Homeowners along with renters can qualify. If you rent, your landlord must be willing to participate,” he said.
Allen Baswell is a staff reporter for The Dispatch
