Pennsylvania Renewable Energy & Sustainable Living Festival

Fri.-Sat., Sept. 18-19, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., Sept 20, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; $12, Kempton Community Center, 82 Community Drive, Kempton, 610-756-6444, paenergyfest.com.

by Nicole Saylor

"As Americans, we represent 5 percent of the world's population. But we use 25 percent of the world's fossil fuels," says Bill Hennessy, executive director of the Pennsylvania Renewable Energy & Sustainable Living Festival. "And that leaves 95 percent of the world left fighting for the Earth's resources."

This weekend, festival attendees can learn how to do something about this, by cutting back on their fuel dependencies and embracing UV rays instead. More than 100 speakers, exhibitors and solar installers will explore how people can utilize solar energy in their own homes — a focus that was chosen for good reason. The state of Pennsylvania is currently offering tax rebates on houses that use solar power, but only if they're installed by certified companies, several of which are presenting at the festival.

But even if you're not ready to dedicate many weekends (and paychecks) to plant solar panels on your roof, there are other greenie offerings at the fest. Eco-friendly fashion designer Ashley Fetherolf will host a sustainable fashion show showcasing designs produced with hemp, organic cottons and recycled fabrics; the "eARTh" exhibit will feature paintings, illustrations and sculpture inspired by the environment; soprano saxophonist Paul Winter will perform; and guests can partake in clay workshops and a yoga conference.