Interested in lowering your energy bills? Or (finally) heating your water — or your home or business — with the sun?

This weekend’s 2008 Solar Fiesta organizers promise to help consumers "plan your route to increased energy independence" with workshops and demonstrations that range from easy conservation tips to full remodeling and solar installation information, and will have on hand the vendors who can help you transition to increased conservation, efficiency and renewable energy.

Organized by the New Mexico Solar Energy Association, the theme of this year’s fiesta is "It’s Easy (Affordable, Cost-Efficient, Smart) Being Green." The event, which also has food and activities for children, will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Highland High School in Albuquerque, 4700 Coal SE. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for students with ID and free to New Mexico Solar Energy Association members, teachers and children under 12.

Once inside, free workshops are offered each morning on how to get started on the "path." As the fiesta’s Web site says:
 

"Pick the ‘low-hanging fruit’ of energy savings with little impact on your bank account. Accumulate the savings from these tips to help finance your trip to the next milestone on your energy-saving journey."

 

The fiesta will also offer information on financial incentives for green projects.

Over the two days, a number of adult workshops delver further into energy-efficiency topics at $10 each (or less with an all-day or weekend pass).

Fiesta topics include energy efficiency and conservation; energy-efficient appliances; environmentally-friendly and efficient building and finish materials; financial and real estate products; passive solar design and construction; recycling; renewable energy and sustainability education; solar electricity; solar thermal; sustainable fuels and efficient vehicles; and water catchment and efficient use.

For a full schedule and overview, download the Solar Fiesta Guide or visit the Solar Fiesta Web site.