Energy conservation to take the spotlight

To educate the community on the importance of conserving energy, the Residential Energy Assistance Challenge, under the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, will host a REACh Energy Fair tomorrow, Nov. 20, at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium in Susupe.

The fair will be held from 9am to 3pm, and would feature displays, demonstrations, and on-site sales by 11 local vendors of energy efficient products.

According to REACh program coordinator Linda Concepcion-Torres, the fair would serve as a venue for residents to learn tips on lowering their monthly utility bills; they will also learn about various products currently available in the market that reduces energy costs.

“We invite anyone who pays a power bill in the CNMI to visit the REACh Energy Fair and learn how they can lower their monthly payments,” she said. “Whether it be purchasing an appliance or product that uses less energy or just learning some energy-conservation tips they can apply for free at home or work, the Energy Fair is going to be an informative learning opportunity for all ages.”

Concepcion-Torres underscored the importance of attending the fair in the wake of the Commonwealth Utilities Corp. proposal to implement a fuel surcharge fee on power.

“It’s a very timely event. Utility rate is high, and when you save energy, in the end you’ll be saving money,” she said.

Attendees are encouraged to visit the registration table at the fair to qualify for their free giveaways, including compact fluorescent lights, umbrellas, and key chains. CFLs use less energy, produce less heat, and last longer than incandescent light bulbs.

Local vendors, including YCO Hardware, Ace Hardware, and Trans-America, will be on hand to demonstrate various products. Also available are displays by the REACh program, the Department of Public Works Energy Division, the CUC, and the Department of Lands and Natural Resources.

Information will also be available for low-income families who may be eligible for the DCCA Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and the Saipan Mayor’s Office utility subsidy program, which provides help in paying for power bills for household who can’t afford it.

Information on other social services will be provided, including the DCCA Nutrition Assistance Program and Office on Aging. REACh will also have an energy-conservation coloring station for children.

The Department of Public Health will also be on hand to provide free sugar and blood pressure screening to the first 100 individuals touring the fair. Live entertainment will also be provided.