There is a sunny spot in the midst of the gloomy news about the near future of the economy. Job creation has slid, prices are edging up, businesses are holding off on decision making, and tourism is slowing down, all due to uncertainty in what lies ahead. But a bright spot that is not dimming is the forward momentum of the use of renewable energy.
Solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal play a larger role among the energy sources that power our lives and economy. These energy choices make sense because their use does not create pollution that damages our atmosphere and oceans, or contribute to the increase in global temperatures which is a current and major risk to all activity, or contribute to the ill health of humans and other living beings. And financially, renewables outperform fossil fuel use both in price and, increasingly, in stability when battery storage is part of the equation.
On Sunday, Sept. 21, over 350 events will be taking place nationwide to celebrate the sun and current technologies that make use of solar power. That day Northampton will be home to a family-friendly energy fair at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School from 1 to 4 p.m. (rain or shine).
Organized by the Northampton Climate Emergency Coalition, our event is titled “Get Energy Smart! An Energy Fair for All.” It will feature outdoor exhibits as well as indoor providers of solar panels, heat pumps, e-bikes, electric vehicles, and landscapers using electric equipment so all your questions can be answered. It will feature remarks by our elected officials with state legislators, Jo Comerford and Lindsay Sabadosa, and an overview of the renewable energy transition by the energy director of Community Action Pioneer Valley. We will hear from the directors of Climate Action and Project Administration Department (CAPA) and Planning and Sustainability Department about Northampton accomplishments and what to look forward to on the energy front. The city of Easthampton will share its climate and sustainability plan and progress, and a presenter from Smith College will describe the conversion of the campus to geothermal heating and cooling. These presentations will occur in the library at Smith Vocational during two sessions from 1:30 to 3:15 p.m. with a half hour break. This will leave time for visits to exhibits and tables to visit vendors and climate action organizations.
And for kids, games, art activities, and sun-themed face painting will have a special spot outdoors with volunteers ready to engage with little ones. Vegan pizza for purchase and Herrell’s ice cream will be available. ASL and Spanish language translation will be provided for visits to both the outside and indoor exhibits and tables.
So, Northampton! Look for our “Get Energy Smart!” team in Northampton Neighbors’ DoozyDo parade on Saturday, Sept. 20, and then come join us at the energy fair on Sept. 21 at Smith Voc. We think you will like what you find.
Helen Seidler is writing on behalf of the Northampton Climate Emergency Coalition.