North Texas consumers received a helping handful of energy efficiency tips this past Saturday at the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Summit and Fair hosted by U.S. Congressman Michael C. Burgess. Over 125 individuals packed the Gateway Center at the University of North Texas to hear energy experts discuss upcoming breakthroughs in energy research and to see a variety of consumer products and automobiles already available on the market today.

“Most people recognize and want to be more energy efficient both for their wallets and for the environment,” said Congressman Michael C. Burgess. “It boils down to a need to educate consumers about what energy efficient products and technologies are already available to improve the quality of life at home, in the office and on the road.”

The event provided both a seminar and an exhibition hall with everything from new washer and driers to solar panels. The fair portion of the event included Wal-Mart, Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA), Home Builders Association of Greater Dallas, Texas Agricultural Extension Service, Home Depot, Lowes, and many more.

Outside of the Gateway Center, participants could stroll by hybrid vehicles from local car dealerships or view a clean-running commuter bus. Made in Denton, a mammoth, yet extremely energy efficient, Peterbilt truck was on display in a bright Kermit the Frog green. It was a favorite of photographers and consumers alike.

On the dais, UNT President Dr. Gretchen Bataille, Congressman Michael Burgess and U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy Clay Sell all discussed how energy efficiency impacts us on a daily basis but plays heavily into our national and global communities.

Three panels continued the discussion on Existing Home Energy Conservation, New Home Construction, and Transportation issues and featured speakers from Green Built North Texas, Denton’s Biodiesel Industries, Inc., and Texas Home Energy Raters Organization among others.

For complete coverage of the summit, and to review the presentations, please visit the website of Congressman Michael Burgess at www/house.gov/burgess.
 
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