To kick off Energy Awareness Month this October, Gov. John Baldacci is looking to gather energy savings ideas from a different demographic: fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders.

The sixth annual Energy Saving Tips Contest, sponsored by the Governor's Office of Energy Independence and Security and the Maine Public Utilities Commission's Efficiency Maine program, is seeking entries in two categories: "Tips For Saving Energy In Your Home" and "Tips for Saving Energy at Your School."

Baldacci encourages students to submit one or two tips. Winners will receive a solar-powered iPOD Shuffle at a special award ceremony in December.

"We want to inspire students to talk about saving energy in their homes and schools, and also learn how simple changes can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," Baldacci said.
For help with contest ideas and to learn about "energy hogs" found in most homes, students can visit http://www.energyhog.org/childrens.htm.

Contest entries must be postmarked by Friday, Oct. 31, and sent to: Joy Adamson, Efficiency Maine Educational Program Manager, Maine Public Utilities Commission, 18 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0018.

Entries must include the student's name, the school's name, school address, teacher and grade level. Winners will be chosen on Nov. 14 and Baldacci will present the awards in December.

For more information, call Joy Adamson at 287-8350 or e-mail joy.adamson@maine.gov.