Holland Reporter

The annual Home Energy Expo is scheduled for Wednesday, November 12, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Holland Civic Center. The event will provide information about the Holland Board of Public Works rebate programs and the Holland Energy Fund, as well as energy-saving tips from various community partners.

A key feature of the Expo is the Holiday Light Exchange, where attendees can trade old incandescent holiday light strings for up to two LED strings while supplies last. The event also offers proper disposal options for household electronics and gas-powered tools, with volunteers available to assist with item handling and transportation. Details on requirements and drop-off procedures are available on the Holland BPW website.

Attendees will have a chance to try electric lawn tools provided by Visser Ace Hardware and Westcore Neighbors Toolshare, with purchase options available on-site through Ace Hardware. Individuals who recycle a gas-powered tool will receive an instant rebate. Additionally, Holland BPW residential electric customers may enter a drawing to win a new electric tool. Those who sign up for or have completed Home Energy 101 between October 2022 and January 2026 are eligible to win a free two-stage EGO snowblower valued at $1,700.

This year’s Expo introduces an Electric Vehicle Showcase organized by the West Michigan EV group. Attendees can view different EV models and learn about operating and maintaining electric vehicles.

Family-friendly games, prizes, and presentations by several community organizations are also planned. Speakers include representatives from ODC Network offering sustainable holiday tips; Southwest Michigan Electric Vehicle Association presenting “Fueling Your Car at Home”; Hope College staff discussing the Sustainability Cottage; Community Action Agency covering weatherization techniques; Green Projects Group presenting “Energy Efficiency for Electrification: Why & How”; and Rheem Midwest/Great Lakes addressing upcoming regulatory changes in water heating.

According to Lexie Kasper, Conservation Outreach Coordinator for ODC Network: “The Home Energy Expo is a great opportunity for the community to learn about electrification and sustainability practices concerning home heating/cooling and water heating, electric and solar panels, EV charging, and the Holland Energy Fund. These programs and practices can help residents lower bills and create a more energy-efficient Holland! Visit the Home Energy Expo webpage to learn more, find speaker times, and see the directions for electronics and gas-powered tool recycling.”

The Expo aims to inform residents about electrification initiatives that could help reduce energy costs while promoting sustainability in Holland.