You hear about new energy efficient technologies for your home almost every day but how do you incorporate them into your own household? Well that question has been asked and answered in the new E-power House, a 15-foot-tall cutaway model home that debuts on May 1, 2011 at the Da Vinci Science Center located in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Visitors will be able to look into all the rooms in the home to see both the energy efficient technologies as well as important energy-saving tips. Another cool feature – a bike parked in front of the home will light up side-by-side incandescent compact fluorescent and LED light bulbs when children (or adults) activate some pedal power.
“This partnership with the Da Vinci Science Center is a great way to teach visitors about the value of energy efficiency and give them information they can use in their daily lives,” said Thomas C. Stathos, director of Customer Programs and Services for PPL Electric Utilities. “Most of the center’s visitors are children, and this exhibit focuses on them. These youngsters can influence energy efficiency in their own homes right now. They are the tenants and homeowners of the future, so it’s important they become educated energy consumers.”
The E-power House, located on the center’s first floor, features a bathroom, bedroom, laundry room, kitchen, and living room. Features include rooftop solar panels, examples of attic insulation, a ceiling fan, and a computer.
“The E-power House is a first-rate addition to the Da Vinci Science Center experience,” said Troy A. Thrash, the center’s executive director and chief executive officer. “Electricity is vital to all we do, for our necessities and life’s conveniences. Using energy efficiently is vital as well and this exhibit shows visitors how they can be smart energy consumers.”
The E-power House is sponsored by PPL Electric Utilities. In addition, their parent PPL Corporation, has been a long-time supporter of the science center and sponsors the Watt’s Up” section of the center where the house is located.