Providence, R.I. – On Saturday, April 5th at 10:00 a.m. United States Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and United States Congressman David Cicilline recognized outstanding leaders in energy efficiency and sustainability in Rhode Island. The ceremony was part of the Energy Expo at the 2014 Rhode Island Home Show, held from Thursday, April 3rd through Sunday, April 6th at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence. The recognition event featured six Rhode Island energy leaders, including builders, schools, homeowners and community organizations.
Caldwell and Johnson, Inc. and Omni Development Corporation were recognized for leadership in building and renovating environmentally sustainable homes in Rhode Island. The Paul W. Crowley East Bay MET Center and the William M. Davies, Jr. Career and Technical High School were recognized for outstanding efforts toward creating net zero and energy efficient schools. Homeowner Alfred Tanner of Warwick was recognized for exemplary implementation of energy efficiency measures in his home. The Comprehensive Community Action Program was recognized for delivering energy solutions to Rhode Island's low income population.
"We applaud these leaders for their trailblazing work to design and build energy efficient homes, schools and offices," said Governor Lincoln D. Chafee. "Their work can help all Rhode Islanders lower their energy costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create comfortable spaces in which to work, learn and live."
"People often think of climate change and energy costs as overwhelming challenges. The reality is that some of the greatest strides in sustainable energy innovation and efficiency are happening right here in our local communities," said Reed. "The Rhode Islanders we honor today are leading the way in our collective effort to conserve energy and help businesses and consumers while reducing pollution and protecting the environment. I commend these pioneers for their tireless efforts."
"Updating our homes, schools, and businesses to be more energy efficient creates jobs and helps to reduce pollution," said Whitehouse, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. "I'm glad to see Rhode Islanders coming up with new and innovative ways to save energy. Their work is important to public health, our economy, and our environment."
"Investing in energy efficient programs saves homeowners money, puts Americans to work, and makes our economy more competitive," said Cicilline. "I am delighted to help recognize Rhode Island businesses and individuals that are doing outstanding work in this fast-growing sector and thank all the sponsors for organizing this Energy Expo. I look forward to continuing to work with federal, state, and local officials in partnership with business leaders to help promote energy efficiency in Rhode Island and across America."
Other speakers at the event included Marion Gold, Commissioner of the Office of Energy Resources; Tim Horan, President of National Grid in Rhode Island; Felix A. Carlone, President of the Rhode Island Builders Association; and Paul Ryan, Rhode Island Energy Efficiency and Resource Management Council.
The Energy Expo is a new feature of the 2014 Rhode Island Home Show, organized by the Rhode Island Builders Association. The Energy Expo's sponsors, the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources, National Grid, and the Rhode Island Energy Efficiency and Resource Management Council, invite all Rhode Island homeowners to: - Learn from over 100 energy vendors about energy-saving products and services - Enter to win a $5,000 Energy Home Makeover - Attend free educational seminars and enter to win prizes - Check out free energy demos on high-tech thermostats, air-tightness testing, and DIY pipe insulation - Bring your kids for free! They will have fun while learning about energy in our Kids' Energy Corner.
Visit http://ribahomeshow.com/ for more information.