Spring into Energy with the Audubon Society of RI and Green Energy Consumers Alliance

The Audubon Society and Green Energy Consumers have worked together for many years to advocate for better energy policy in Rhode Island. But where can you go to learn about all the different resources available to Rhode Islanders who want to live a greener lifestyle?

Spring into Energy is a clean energy forum where individuals can learn how to lower their carbon footprint and what they can do make their home efficient and green. We're gathering energy experts from across the state to create a one-stop shop for all your clean energy and conservation needs—home efficiency, electric cars, rooftop solar, and much more!

And what better place to welcome the spring season than a beautiful wildlife refuge?

Event is open to the public. A $5 donation is requested for admission, though not required. Walk-ins throughout the event are welcome!

Talk to energy professionals

Mini-Workshop Program

These workshops are a perfect place to ask questions, learn more about energy, and become a more informed energy consumer. If you miss the workshop you're interested in

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM: Where to Start with Solar, with the RI Office of Energy Resources

The Rhode Island Office Energy Resources has recently released the RI Residential Guide to Going Solar, a handbook for homeowners to help them navigate the many choices involved with installing a roof-mounted solar array. Shauna Beland, Chief of Program Development, will go over topics the Guide covers and answer questions related to going solar. The presentation will focus on rooftop residential and small commercial PV systems as well as the available incentives.

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM: Empowering Citizens to Advance the Clean Energy Future in Local Communities, with Acadia Center

This workshop provides an overview of the types of clean energy projects or policies that residents, neighborhoods, and municipalities can pursue. Our goal is to illuminate the steps communities can take now, show how outdated rules act as barriers, and inspire local advocates to seek policy changes that give communities the choice to capture the benefits of a clean energy future.

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM: Electric Cars are Here: What You Should Know, with Green Energy Consumers Alliance

Transportation accounts for 40% of greenhouse gas emissions in New England– more than any other sector. Driving an electric car can cut that figure down significantly and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. This workshop will explore what your electric options are, how affordable and easy it can be to make the switch, and your options for at-home and public charging.

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM: Recycling Right, with RI Resource Recovery

This workshop will cover the basic guidelines for mixed recycling in Rhode Island and what you can put in the bin at your home, school, or workplace. Your efforts to recycle right will keep recycling workers safe, save cities and towns money, provide high-quality raw materials to manufacturers, and preserve space in the Central Landfill.

Here are some of the other organizations that will be exhibiting:

• Mission Electric Bikes, a local e-bike shop

• RISE Engineering, providing energy efficiency measures to renters and homeowners, including home energy assessments through National Grid's EnergyWise program

• NEC Solar, offering residential and commercial solar options

• Citizen's Climate Lobby, working to put a price on carbon

• E2SOL, maximizing renewable energy solutions for individuals and communities while providing guidance on energy tax incentives

...and many more!

Test drive an electric car (and an e-bike too!)

At Spring into Energy, you will also have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of an electric vehicle (EV) and see for yourself that the future is electric.

Need real, unbiased answers to your questions about electric cars from someone who actually owns one? We will also have an electric car showcase with electric car owners who want to share their experience.

Electric car test drives will be available from 11 AM to 2 PM. Electric bikes will be available for test rides all day. Test drive electric cars with Grieco Toyota, BMW of Warwick, and Stateline Nissan, and e-bikes with Mission Electric Bikes.