Many Rhode Islanders are nervous in anticipation of the high cost of heating their homes this winter. As the topic of alternative energy in nearly everyone’s discussions, it was a perfect time for the University of Rhode Island to host the 2008 Rhode Island Energy Expo. The expo is designed to offer innovative and practical strategies to help individuals and businesses deal with rising energy costs.

The Expo was held on Sunday, Nov. 16th at the Ryan Center on the University’s Kingston Campus.

The Energy Expo showcased dozens of local companies exhibiting products and services that provide greater energy efficiency, renewable energy, and alternative fuels for use in homes, businesses and communities. The event also featured educational

workshops and demonstrations, educational activities for kids, music and food.

Some of the topics covered were:

* How can I keep heating costs down this winter?
* How can I reduce my electric bill?
* Is renewable energy right for me?
* How can I lower my transportation costs?
* What can my community do to be greener?

Many of the workshops centered around such topics as:

“Solar, Wind, Hydro: Are They Right For Me?”

“Geothermal & Biomass: Rhode Island’s Hidden Resources for Home Efficiency;” “Saving Money and Protecting the Planet: Energy Efficiency and Conservation in the Home or Business;”

Also, classes covering alternative fuels, green building, and green design were offered.

It was the Expo’s hope that the attendees will leave with all the information they need to reduce their energy costs and “go green.”

The DEM estimates that 50,000 cesspools still exist and contribute to pollution of drinking water and water in beach areas, which is why it filed legislation to inspect and replace failed cesspools that are located near key water resources.  Cesspools are considered substandard systems. They don’t treat wastewater, they merely dispose of it.

In contrast, conventional INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM, (ISDS) AKA septic systems place the wastewater well above the level of soils saturated by groundwater and they disperse over a large area, which results in substantial removal of pollutants. Although DEM has not yet written the regulations to enforce all provisions of the new law, if you are buying a property that is currently served by a cesspool – you should determine whether your property is subject to this law high risk areas include within 200 feet of a public drinking well, surface drinking water supply, or inland edge of a shoreline bordering a tidal water area.

The mandatory Disclosure form that sellers sign has been revised to inform buyers about the new cesspool law and their right to an inspection. Buyers will have 10 days to have a cesspool inspected if they wish. 

Failed cesspools in high risk areas must be replaced within one year after failure with an ISDS system or linked to a sewer system where available All non-failed cesspools that are located in high-risk areas, will need upgrade to an ISDS by 2013 if in a non-sewered area or, if located on a sewer stub, must tie into a sewer within one year of the sale of any property that is in a sewered area. Some communities, such as South Kingstown, Charlestown, and Block Island have adopted local ordinances that are stricter than this legislation, so make sure to check local requirements as well.