Residents of Hermanus and visitors to the town, young and old, braved the wind and the rain on Monday 30 April to attend the first day of Whale Coast Conservation’s Sustainable Energy Expo, which was supported by a grant from the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund. They came to find out more about what energy is, and how they can adapt their lives to the increasing shortages and costs of electricity.
Over the two days of the Expo householders learned that it is possible, without installing alternative energy sources, to save at least 30% – 40% of the electrical energy they use and that, after reducing wastage, progressive investment in simple forms of alternative energy sources is both possible and affordable. Indeed, some of the alternative energy ideas are very accessible to the poor.
The wide range of exhibits ranged from practical to informative and educational – but all of it was fun, which appealed to both adults and children.
Our aim is to see many more solar water heating installations, electrically-powered bicycles, energy efficient light bulbs, photovoltaic panels, heat pumps and other energy saving technology around the town. We also want to see the Overstrand building regulations include energy efficient building design.
Reducing our dependence on energy from the national grid and supplementing with sustainable technologies saves money in the short and medium term. But, more importantly, it contributes to the possibility that man may survive on this planet in the long term.
We hope to see you at the next Expo in 2013.