It’s Electric! Explore Local Resources at the Home Energy Expo
By: Lexie Kasper
The annual Home Energy Expo will take place on Wednesday, November 12th, from 12:00 to 6:00 pm at the Holland Civic Center. This is an opportunity to learn about the Holland Board of Public Works rebate programs and the Holland Energy Fund, energy-saving tips and resources from numerous community partners, safely recycle electronics and gas-powered tools, and have fun with games and hands-on activities!
The Holiday Light Exchange, a well-known event, will take place during the Expo. Attendees can trade in their old incandescent light strings for up to two LED holiday light strings (while supplies last). There will also be opportunities to properly dispose of hard-to-recycle items! Household electronic items and gas-powered tools can be recycled, and volunteers will be on hand to help community members handle and transport items. Visit the Holland BPW website for any requirements and drop-off information.
While you get rid of your old tools, you can try out electric lawn tools courtesy of Visser Ace Hardware and the Westcore Neighbors Toolshare, and you can even purchase them on the spot through Ace. If you’ve recycled a gas-powered tool, you’ll receive an instant rebate! If you’re a Holland BPW residential electric customer, you may be able to win a new electric tool. Sign up for Home Energy 101 (or have completed the program between October 2022 and January 2026), you’ll have the opportunity to win a FREE 2-stage EGO snowblower valued at $1,700.
There will also be an Electric Vehicle Showcase, a new addition to the Expo this year, courtesy of the West Michigan EV group. Attendees will see a variety of EV models and learn the ins and outs of operating and maintaining an electric vehicle.
The Expo will have family-friendly games and prizes, along with several community speakers! ODC Network will give tips on having sustainable holidays, the Southwest Michigan Electric Vehicle Association will present “Fueling Your Car at Home”, Hope College staff will discuss the Sustainability Cottage, Community Action Agency will present on weatherization techniques, Green Projects Group will present “Energy Efficiency for Electrification: Why & How”, and Rheem Midwest/Great Lakes will discuss pending regulatory changes in water heating.
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.
Lexie Kasper is the Conservation Outreach Coordinator for ODC Network.