By SARAH B. AUBREY
Indiana Correspondent

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Still recovering from the first winter utility bill and wondering how to reduce energy consumption for a home or business? Purdue University extension will host a program addressing the issue of energy costs on Jan. 8 from 3-7 p.m.

The theme for the conference is “Getting a Grip on Energy Costs,” and several topics concerning conservation and energy alternate sources will be addressed at the Alumni Hall at the Indiana University-Kokomo campus, located at 2300 S. Washington Street. The first 100 attendees will receive a free CFL light bulb.

Presenters will discuss energy conservation opportunities in new and old construction, geothermal heating and air conditioning systems, practical applications in wind energy and solar energy, grant and tax opportunities and the benefits of conducting energy audits.
Dr. John Lumkes, professor, will speak on energy conservation when constructing a new home. When building a new home or undertaking a major remodeling project, Lumkes advises consumers who want to save money on utility bills to make energy-efficient choices during the planning and design phase.

Calling advance planning the “lowest-hanging fruit,” he believes a three- to five-year return on one’s investment for many energy saving features is possible, with proper planning. “Not only do you quickly recoup your cost, you live in a more comfortable home, and you know that the house will continue saving energy for many years to come,” said Lumkes.

Paul Marcellino, Purdue extension educator in Howard County and program chair, hopes it will give consumers more confidence in their ability to save on energy costs.

“The economy has everyone concerned with balancing budgets. This program will present possible alternatives in energy conservation to reduce the burden in energy costs for the household, as well as industry, that are environmentally friendly,” he said. “This free program will give the participant an opportunity to interact with experts in the field, in a convenient and comfortable format.”

One of its goals is to provide consumers with tips for building an energy-efficient home and help residents become less burdened with fluctuations in energy prices that have been common in recent years. Lumkes will share personal experience gained while building his own home, including how the energy efficiency upgrade he opted for has played out over three years of living in the house.

In addition to the program topics, conference attendees will have an opportunity to visit with vendors that provide services and products in energy conservation and alternate energy sources. For more information, contact Paul at 765-456-2313 or e-mail pmarcellino@purdue.edu