W&J energy center engaging younger students
For the fourth year in a row, the Center for Energy Policy and Management at Washington & Jefferson College will engage with students on a project designed to curtail energy inefficiency in households across the region.
The project likewise is an endeavor to foster youth leadership and environmental stewardship, according to a CEPM news release.
Boosted by financial support from the West Penn Energy Fund, the center will assemble energy-efficient “care packages” containing items such as LED light bulbs and weatherization materials.
Middle school students participating in the leadership academy in the Upper St. Clair School District will help to put together kits while learning the importance of sustainability and community service.
The center also will collaborate with LeMoyne Community Center in Washington, which serves local families, to deliver workshops to summer camp students. These sessions will focus on educating students about energy efficiency, sustainability and the resources available in the kits.
These workshops are designed to give students a better understanding of reducing energy costs, knowledge they can share with families and use to advocate for sustainable practices in their communities.
CEPM staffers will distribute energy care packages to local families at food distribution events at the LeMoyne Center. These materials, when installed, can save families up to 20% on energy bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. That can be vital to families who may struggle balancing household needs.
This program has provided about 800 families with materials to improve household comfort and save money on utility bills, while enhancing awareness of the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability in young people.
Corey Young, director of the Center for Energy Policy and Management, said: “We’re delighted to partner with West Penn Energy Fund on this important initiative. With their support, we’re able to provide meaningful experiences for students in two school districts and help local families reduce their energy consumption and save money on their energy bills.”
CEPM plans to work with students this summer to assemble kits and provide energy efficiency education. Bags will be distributed in the Washington area at food distribution events.
Joel Morrison, West Penn Energy Fund administrator, said in a statement: “Energy efficiency is an investment that delivers immediate results.
This program helps families lower their costs today while giving students real experience in serving their community. That’s the kind of measurable impact WPEF is proud to support.”
The fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit seeking transformational projects that will support sustainable energy technologies in a manner that will improve the economic and environmental health of communities within its service area.