Kick off your Fourth of July holiday week at the Michigan Renewable Energy Fair. The Michigan Renewable Energy Fair, now in it’s 15th year, is Michigan’s premier event bringing people together to learn about renewable energy that create sustainable lifestyles for homeowners, businesses, and municipalities of all sizes.
During the past 14 years, interested citizens gather each summer at the fair to learn about renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other sustainable lifestyle practices. Over the years, friendships have been forged, businesses have grown and a welcoming sense of community has grown surrounding the fair attendees and exhibitors. As Michigan’s renewable energy and energy efficiency economy has grown …so has the fair.
The fair provides opportunity for families, small businesses, kids all ages, and students a chance to learn about ways to save money in homes and businesses by becoming more energy efficient and how to invest in renewable energy to get a return on your investment. The MREF draws attendees from all over the Midwest to learn how to take steps to become more energy independent and learn from others the practices that can make your family or business more sustainable. Be advised the fair is not your typical trade show. The fair combines family fun with local food, hands on activities, and small size workshops where you can ask questions to engaging speakers. We throw in the music and food for good measure to insure a festive atmosphere.
The MREF is the place if you have questions? Have you ever wondered…
• Does solar make sense on your home
• Does solar work in Michigan?
• What about the installation process?
• Are new windows a cost effective energy solution?
• Is there a way you can replace your propane pig?
• How can I find hidden energy savings in my home and business?
• What is an energy audit?
• How you can grow enough food to feed your family
• How you can replace your roof with a cool energy saving roof
• How to build a net zero home or even ‘what is’ a net zero home?
• What kind of power does an electric vehicle have?
• How can I get a charger for my electric vehicle?
• How can I go off grid?
You and your family can take away answers to this and much more. At the fair you can see new technologies and learn how they work in a low key, no pressure, FUN atmosphere. If you have questions you can talk to installers, contractors, manufacturers, and utility representatives in a relaxing environment so you can make friends as well as informed choices.
Among the many special guests, the keynote speaker on Friday, June 26, is Mr. Patrick King, Vice President of Suniva, the company that recently opened a solar panel manufacturing plant in Saginaw and plans to bring hundreds of jobs to Saginaw County over the next three years. According to Suniva’s website, “Suniva is the leading American manufacturer of high-efficiency, cost-competitive PV solar cells and modules. The company is known worldwide for its high-quality solar products, patented low-cost manufacturing technology, and long-term reliable performance.”
GLREA takes special pride in the Kids Tent and Activity area on Saturday from 9 am – 3 pm so your kids can enjoy fun and games just like you! In addition, On Saturday June 28, there will be a drawing in which 10 high school students are awarded a $500 scholarship to be applied toward tuition at a college of their choice. Last year, GLREA awarded scholarships to graduates entering college or a technical school in a STEM field. This was a huge success last year and we will continue the tradition this year.
There are a variety of different workshops which run through the day both Friday and Saturday so you are able to select from several topics you may be interested in. The workshops start on the hour and run about 50 minutes. Energy efficiency and renewable energy are not one size fits all. Solutions are as individual as people.
New features this year will be an area where local artisans and crafters can participate in the fair and give visitors and opportunity to buy local ! The fair organizers are looking for a variety of small businesses and hobbyist to be involved in our BUY LOCAL Artisans Area. See GLREA.org for more information.
Everyone is welcome. Come to the fair whether you have an interest in energy efficiency or you are just looking for a pleasant day trip the week-end of June 26 & 27. For those so inclined, there are excellent camping facilities at the fairgrounds so you can make a week-end out of it. see: http://fb.ingham.org/
Check the GLREA.org website for updates on exhibitors, workshops, directions, and other fun events!
There is a small gate fee which helps defray a portion of event costs, however there is a free Independence Pass! GLREA Members get free admittance to the fair so Join GLREA today and be the first to get information about the fair plus as a member you can get in free! To make membership easier the GLREA is offering half off on student, individual and family membership during month of June.
Source: GLREA
Click here to be introduced to the GLREA