Kennebec County Soil & Water Conservation District

“to protect and enhance Maine's soil and water resources by providing educational programs, conservation information and technical assistance to municipalities, schools, landowners and residents of Kennebec County."

The Energy Page

Given the number of questions we not get regarding energy use, energy savings, alternative energy and general options about our energy consumption, we've created this page so that District energy information is in one place.

If you have suggestions or recommendations let us know.

We got started with energy related services through our Dairy Farm Energy Audit project which started in the late fall of 2007. That project information is on a separate page. Click here for that information.

But, we are collecting and receiving a great deal of information related to that project. With the ongoing dilemma of how to modify our energy dependent activities in this new world of much more expensive energy, we believe there are some pertinent Latin phrases.

1^st - Caveat emptor, usually translated to mean "let the buyer beware". In this era of near panic about energy consumption, there are a number of solutions being offered that are questionable at best and simply flagrant and dangerous at worst. People need to have accurate and comprehensive information to make good decisions.

2^nd - Carpe diem, often translated to mean "seize the day". Now is the time to address the changes we need to make in how we use energy. There are choices we can make and implement now. There will be additional options as we go forward. Don't get caught by making an unreasoned decision, but do not wait for some magic bullet to solve the problem.

 Click here for an editorial perspective.

 Click here for a simple btu comparison of different fuels.

As the Kennebec District collects and puts together additional information about energy sources, energy technology, energy conservation, and energy products, we will try and identify sources of information here. Remember the Caveat emptor warning. Some information is coming from groups or individuals who have an interest in selling you something. You need to do your research.

Sources of information with the needed internet links.

Remember, most of these sites are commercial business that also have products they would like to sell you.

General information

Lighting

Wind

Workshops and public presentations

Appliances and motor energy use and analysis

Looking for a new heating source or a better way to save energy?

As home heating oil prices approach $5 a gallon, up from less than $3 at the start of last winter, people are looking for energy alternatives to reduce their use of oil, or even do away with it altogether.  But, there are lots of products on the market, and sometimes claims about them are confusing.   What is really likely to provide the best value over the long haul? 

The recent issue of Consumer Reports is focused on energy use and compares various energy options. It reviews furnaces, appliances, light bulbs, hot water heating, computers, televisions and all kinds of other products that use energy. It may be worth a visit to your local library if you do not already get a copy.

Mark the date: on Wednesday, September 17th Dick Fortier of Efficiency Maine will give a presentation on the most common places to look for cold air infiltration into your home, and how to plug the leaks before this winter.  More on this workshop in next month's Sodalite.