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While there is much national discussion about going "green," some Alaskans may still be uncertain about the methods and means of embracing this concept. As such, Homer Electric Association hosted its first ever HEA Energy and Conservation Fair in Kenai on Saturday, in an attempt to provide the public with free information on the latest energy-saving appliances and weatherization techniques.

"The goal of the fair is to get energy conservation information into the hands of HEA members," said HEA spokesman Joe Gallagher. "We want our members to have the best tools available to them as they look for ways to reduce their energy use and keep their utility costs as low as possible."

The fair featured 18 vendors who displayed a variety of energy conservation related products including appliances, construction materials, heating sources, lighting options and alternative energy information.

"The experts in the field are often vendors who sell energy-efficient products, so our idea was to invite them to set up informational displays and provide demonstrations and information," Gallagher said. "Energy conservation is important to HEA, and the bottom line is that it can save our members money."

Pat Hannan of Soldotna said he came to the fair to explore his options going into winter.

"The price of gas here is so high, I've heard horror stories of people spending $200 to $300 a month to heat their home, so I wanted to come learn about alternative heating methods," he said.

Hannan said he found the information on wood-heated boilers very useful.

"The vendor was very informative," he said. "They cost about $5,000, but it seems like they would pay for themselves after just a couple of years."

In addition to the vendors, there were several workshops.

"We know that people would like in-depth information on upgrades, so we partnered with Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AFHC) and Wisdom and Associates to hold on-going workshops throughout the day," Gallagher said.

Wisdom and Associates discussed "Making Home Energy Upgrades Pay: Cost Effectiveness of Home Improvements" and "The House as a System: Keeping Homes Safe and Healthy When Energy Upgrades are Made."

"A lot of people are making improvements as part of the energy rebate program, but you want to do them properly" said Robert Moss, an energy auditor with Wisdom and Associates. "As an example, targeting air tightness for the energy bill is good, but if you do too much you can end up with condensation or mold."

The AHFC workshop focused on "Energy Rebate and Weatherization Programs," ad provided detailed information on how to apply and receive state grants and rebates for energy efficiency work done in your home.

AHFC also highlighted future free energy efficiency classes that will be taught in conjunction with the Alaska Craftsmen Home Program on Nov. 14 and 15 at Lowe's in Kenai.

"I would recommend anyone participating in the rebate program attend some of these classes," said Betty Hall, a research information provider with AHFC.

Vendors and patrons alike said they found the fair a useful community resource.

"What's good about a show like this is getting all the serious-minded questions," said Jeff Warton of Spenard Builders Supply. "People here are seriously interested in saving energy and money."

Barry Eldridge of Kenai said he also believed the fair was a worthwhile endeavor on the part of HEA.

"I think (the fair) is a very good display of some of the energy-saving options available in this community," he said, "and much of them are practical."

Gallagher said based on the success of this inaugural fair, HEA would be pursuing similar events in the future.

"We're really happy with the turnout we've had, especially since this was our first one, so we may plan to do these annually," he said. "We'll also be holding a second Energy and Conservation Fair next Saturday in Homer at the Islands and Oceans Visitor Center, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m."

For more information, call 283-2324.

Joseph Robertia can be reached at joseph.robertia@peninsulaclarion.com.