The third annual Green Buildings Open House, slated for Saturday, Oct. 2, will feature energy-saving “green” design techniques in homes, office buildings, schools and wind farms from Maine to Washington, D.C.
Organized by the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association, the event offers a perspective on how innovative designs can reduce energy bills and pollution. Homeowners, architects, builders and real estate professionals will welcome visitors to the homes and buildings and explain what it means to “build green.”
“This is a wonderful opportunity for the public to actually visit those homes, offices, and public spaces where the latest energy efficient equipment, renewable energy systems, and recycled and non-toxic building materials are already in use,” said Doug Reid, Executive Director for the energy association. “The open house is also a great way to meet those green pioneers who have made a commitment to bring their vision of sustainability to life, right in our communities.”
Steven Strong, a solar energy expert, author, and world-renowned architect recognized for his design of environmentally responsive buildings and use of renewable energy systems, is among the event’s supporters. Strong was named a “Hero of the Planet” by Time Magazine and has served as an advisor on energy and environmental issues to numerous governors, senators, and presidential candidates.
“The Green Buildings open house is an ideal way to see those exemplary buildings that are using ‘off-the-shelf’ technology,” he said. “These technologies make it possible to design and construct buildings that produce their own thermal and electrical energy on-site from renewable resources, while significantly reducing fuel use and pollution.”
NESEA is an educational and advocacy organization that promotes the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency by producing major sustainable energy events that inspire and motivate people to get involved. The Open House is held in collaboration with the American Solar Energy Society’s National Solar Tour. The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Renewable Energy Trust is a major sponsor of the open house in Massachusetts.
Visitors of open house sites can qualify to win door prizes from Zoar Outdoors, Eastern Mountain Sports, and Maple Hill Farm B&B. For a complete listing of open house sites, sponsors, directions, and more, visit http://www.nesea.org/ or call (413) 774-6051. The event is free in most locations and no reservations are required.
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