With the fluctuating cost of gasoline, the uncertainty of the economy and Cornell's focus on sustainability, interest in saving energy runs high on campus; more than 500 staff members came to the Energy Fair, where Cornell President David Skorton gave his annual address to staff Oct. 27.

Jason Koski/University Photography

Peggy Beach, director of campus information and visitor relations, uses the energy bike during the Energy Fair, assisted by Carole Fisher, extension community educator. The energy bike demonstrates the amount of electricity needed by various household appliances.

This year's Energy Fair featured representatives from more than 20 on- and off-campus departments and businesses, with displays and information on such issues as alternative energy sources, financial assistance, household energy saving measures, recycling services and transportation options.

Receiving much attention was an energy-generating bicycle that Cornell employees pedaled to get a sense of how much human energy it takes to power a light bulb or a household appliance (the idea being to encourage staffers to turn off lights when not in use). To show the effectiveness of solar energy in the often-overcast Northeast, a small trailer of solar panels was on hand to power the sound system for the president's address.

Staff members came with a variety of interests, and many left with helpful tips. "I needed information about energy efficiency for my home," said Susan Bristol, an accounts coordinator in Cornell University Library, as she exited Barton Hall. Noted Jackie Carrigan, a custodian with Building Care, "I got to actually see how much less energy is used by a compact fluorescent light bulb."