As thermometers drop and energy prices climb, local residents can learn no- and low-cost ways to save on energy bills by attending the free educational workshop, Saving on Your Energy Bills, scheduled for Tuesday, September 14, at the Polk County Extension Center. Two workshop times are available, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

In addition to learning how to implement energy-saving measures in their homes, participants will have the opportunity to sign up for home energy audits at a special workshop price. The standard cost of an energy audit is $500. The audit will be reduced to $100 and participants can have a qualified Home Energy Rater conduct an audit of their home and make energy saving recommendations on a personal level. A limited number of Home Energy Audits will be available.

Contact the Polk County Cooperative Extension Service if you are interested in the home audit to see if you qualify and receive the paperwork before the workshop.

Through the cooperation of N.C. Cooperative Extension attendees will also receive an free energy kit. The N.C. Cooperative Extension sponsored free workshop will be held at the Polk County Service Center.

Pre-registration is required as space is limited. Register by calling 828-894-8218. Requirements for the homes receiving audits include: less than 2,000 square feet, one HVAC system, and homes must be five years or older. Only individuals attending the workshop will qualify for the reduced audit price.