PA Environment Digest

Visitors to the Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown will get an up-close look at energy efficiency thanks to a new educational exhibit from PPL Electric Utilities.

The E-power House, which takes its name from the utility's menu of energy efficiency and conservation programs, is a 15-foot-tall cutaway model home that will debut May 1.

Visitors will be able to look into all the rooms in the home and see important energy-saving tips and information. In addition, a bicycle in front of the model home will allow children to use pedal power to light up side-by-side incandescent, compact fluorescent and LED light bulbs.

"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."

PPL Electric Utilities' parent company, PPL Corporation, also has been a long-time supporter of the science center and sponsors the "Watt's Up?" section of the center where the E-power House is located. James H. Miller, PPL Corporation's chairman, president and chief executive officer, will receive the center's Science Hall of Fame Grand Maestro Award on April 30.

The Da Vinci Science Center is open seven days a week and is located at 3145 Hamilton Blvd. Bypass, Allentown. Find out more by calling 484-664-1002 or by visiting online.

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