Reality Show Raises Awareness of Energy Efficiency
Contestants will appear on TV to plead for public voter support
TV reality shows have recently increased national interest in ballroom dancing. Can a local reality show do the same thing for home energy efficiency? GRU has teamed with WCJB TV 20 and Mid-Fla Heating & Air to create a show that aims to do just that. With $100,000 in sponsor-donated appliances and other energy efficiency upgrades at stake, contestants will compete with each other to convince the local public to vote for their home by making a televised plea describing how they would benefit the most from a "home energy makeover."
A panel of experts will evaluate the applications and select four finalists, who will be announced on WCJB TV 20 in January. The four finalists will then appear on TV to plead their cases to the public, who will then vote for the winner.
Applicants will be attempting to correct energy inefficiency problems in their homes such as inadequate attic insulation, leaky ducts, or old inefficient air conditioning systems. The one home selected by the voters will be eligible for new appliances and repairs up to $100,000 in value. The winner will benefit not only by receiving the upgrades, but by the year round savings realized through a reduced energy bill.
GRU's intent is to raise public awareness through the contest on ways to reduce energy use in the home. The program is part of GRU’s kickoff of their "whole house" energy reduction program.
Applicants must be GRU residential electric customers, and must own and occupy the home to be improved. Applications must be postmarked by midnight on December 14, 2007.