The Energy Efficiency Committee was formed in 2007 by the Board of Selectmen after a citizens’ petition, strongly supported by the community, directed town officials to act locally to reduce energy consumption and our impact on climate change.

The Committee’s focus has been to encourage energy conservation and efficiency and recycling at both the local government and residential level. Our goal is to save residents money at home and on their tax bills, and to reduce our carbon footprint.

Energy saving products and ideas have been shared through an Energy Fair, tips on Atkinson cable, a NH Carbon Challenge presentation at the Community Center and through our blog, http://atkinsonsavesenergy.blogspot.com . We will continue to offer "educational" opportunities in 2009.

The Committee was awarded a grant by the Rockingham Planning Commission for assistance in crafting language for the Master Plan to encourage sustainable development and the implementation of renewable energy options in commercial, residential and public projects. The language will also encourage town officials to place energy efficiency and conservation, and the implementation of renewable energy alternatives as a priority in the construction and maintenance of all town buildings. The work with RPC will begin in 2009 and the Energy Efficiency Committee will work collaboratively with the Planning Board to include their input.

Atkinson has and continues to participate in the New Hampshire Carbon Challenge. The NHCC provides practical ideas for reducing energy use in your home and tells you how much money you can expect to save with each one of the ideas that you choose to try. The website, www.nhcarbonchallenge.org , tracks the total efforts of our town. The Energy Efficiency Committee encourages all residents to take the challenge. Currently, Hampstead is in first place in the state. Let’s make Atkinson #1 – take the challenge!

Reducing our waste, reusing items and recycling also reduce our energy needs. Atkinson residents have shown their concern for the environment through conservation support; we can further our support by saving our natural resources and reduce our energy use by considering the three R’s daily.

The Energy Efficiency Committee is looking for more members. We need YOUR energy to save the town’s energy! Please contact the Selectmen’s Office or attend one of our meetings (dates posted on the Town Hall Bulletin Board) if you are interested in learning more.

Respectfully submitted,

Michelle Veasey, Chair