Extension's Energy Efficiency Programs for Residential and Developers [abstract]

Abstract

As the outreach arm of the University of Missouri, Extension has worked to improve the critical thinking and decision making skills of Missouri citizens around environmental and energy education within the context of their daily lives. The College of Human Environmental Sciences (HES) Extension offers a number of popular programs in energy. HomeWorks and Home Energy Conservation: Saving Energy in Missouri Homes are programs that offer homeowners and renters an overview of energy demands and methods to reduce this demand - including alternative energy options. HES Extension also provides statewide energy education through landmark events including the Green Homes Renewable Energy Festival and the Sustainable Living Fair. The most popular program of 2008 was a design charette for the new Educational Resource and Innovation Center (ERIC), hosted by HES Extension and the Cooper County Extension Center. ERIC will be a hands-on showcase for University Extension programs, technologies, and ideas. The charette process combines creative, intense work sessions with public workshops and open houses at critical decision-making points. It is a collaborative planning process that harnesses the talents and energies of all interested parties to create and support a feasible plan for public facility design.