Houghton County is hosting a community-wide celebration tomorrow as Georgetown University announces that the county has advanced to the semi-finals in the national Georgetown University Energy Prize.
The national competition is geared for communities to reduce their electric and natural gas consumption over the next two years and win $5 million.
Houghton County’s entry is an initiative launched and led by Michigan Tech computer science graduate student Abhilash Kantamneni, with the support and help of the Houghton County Board of Commissioners and many Michigan Tech and community individuals and groups.
To celebrate, a series of events have been scheduled for tomorrow that are all open to the public.
ANNOUNCEMENT/KICK-OFF EVENT
Date: Wednesday, January 14
Time: 11:00 am
Location: Houghton County Courthouse — Circuit Courtroom
A selected group of speakers will describe their excitement for the GUEP competition, pledge their support, and encourage the community to participate. After the event, a photo will be taken on the steps of the Houghton County Courthouse (weather permitting) with speakers and any community leaders who wish to participate. Bakery will be provided by Roy’s Pasties and Bakery and Suomi Home Bakery & Restaurant.
WINTERIZATION IN CALUMET– ADDITIONAL PRESS OPPORTUNITY
Melissa Davis of New Power Tour has a weatherization project the same afternoon and press would be welcome to attend.
Date/Time: Wednesday, January 14, 1:00-4:00pm
Locatoin: Maria Rastello Residence: 25571 Wedge St.,Calumet
EFFICIENCY UNITED BOOTHS
Efficiency United is state and utility partnership program that helps people and businesses to become more energy efficient (http://www.efficiencyunited.com/). They will have representatives in Houghton and Hancock to discuss the multiple rebates and programs they offer to Semco and UPPCO customers, as well as selling energy efficient items (like LED light bulbs and low flow showerheads) at cost.
Date/Time: Wednesday, January 14 at 1:00-8:00pm
Location: Pat’s Foods in Hancock
Date/Time: Thursday, January 15 at 1:00-8:00pm
Location: Econo Foods in Houghton
HARDWARE STORE SALES
Local hardware stores have agreed to provide a 10% discount on “consumable” energy efficiency products (CFL and LED light bulbs, winterization supplies, etc.) from January 14-31 for customers who request the HEET discount.
Dates: January 14-31
Participating Stores (as of Friday):
Swift’s Hardware, Houghton
Risto’s Hardware, Hancock
Ace Hardware, Calumet