World's Largest Energy Fair Celebrates its 20th Year — Right Here in Wisconsin

Twenty years ago, when the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) held its first Energy Fair, few imagined such a small event would have such a big impact on so many. Today, the Energy Fair in Custer, Wis., is the world’s largest and longest-running energy education event. Each year, it inspires thousands of people — just like you — to live more sustainably, empowering them with the tools and information they need to make the jump from awareness and interest to action.

As a sponsor of the fair, Focus on Energy is proud to be a part of such an important event and congratulates the MREA on two decades of success. For not only has the Energy Fair helped to dramatically increase the quantity and quality of renewable energy installations in Wisconsin and across the country, it’s given Focus a unique opportunity to reach out and connect with residents and businesses.

In fact, the fair has helped Focus make significant strides in growing the number of Wisconsin residents who have realized their renewable energy dream. For example, 338 renewable energy projects were completed last year, a record for the number of projects completed in one year since Focus on Energy’s inception in 2001.

Moreover, in 2008 Focus on Energy helped Wisconsin residents and businesses save nearly $60 million in annual energy costs by working with the program to implement a number of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. These savings translate into real economic and environmental benefits. To put the figures into perspective, the total savings are equivalent to:

• The amount of electricity consumed annually by approximately 67,000 average homes in Wisconsin.
• Meeting the energy needs of a town the size of Dodgeville, Wis., for about eight years.
• The amount of energy produced by burning 228,283 tons of coal.
• The same energy value as almost 1.2 million barrels of oil.

How do I attend the Energy Fair?

The 20th annual MREA Energy Fair will be held June 19-21, 2009 at the ReNew the Earth Institute in Custer, Wis., and will feature hundreds of workshops and exhibits all emphasizing clean energy and sustainable living. General admission for the fair is $15 each day or $35 for all three days. If you’re interested in learning more about or attending the fair, visit the-mrea.org.

While you’re at the fair, be sure to visit the Focus on Energy tent where you’ll learn about energy efficiency and renewable energy with hands on displays. You’ll also have access to a wealth of information through literature, as well as the opportunity to speak to some of the state’s foremost energy experts. These experts will also be sharing their knowledge at Focus on Energy workshops.

How can renewable energy become a reality for me?

Whether you attend the fair and become inspired to try renewable energy, or if it’s been a lifelong goal, Focus on Energy has a network of experts and a variety of services to help you plan, finance and install a renewable energy system.

To learn more about Focus on Energy, call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com.