Over 200 companies began showcasing their energy efficiency, conservation or management solutions in Philadelphia yesterday and will continue today. The event, presented by the Association of Energy Engineers and hosted by the Philadelphia Gas Works offers a cornucopia of great energy products and services.

Particularly noticeable were the efforts to develop unique products and services to capture new market segments. Crunch Energy, for example, offers fun, easy-to-use energy consumption diagnostics and management tools for companies that, according to its representative, “perhaps don’t need a full-time energy manager, but need 1/8 of a manager.”   

Old-fashioned ideas were given a new look – such as effectively transferring the solar heat on the building’s outer surfaces into the interior for heating purposes – offered by ATAS International, or making ice during off-peak hours to cool the building during peak hours, offered by Calmac. 

In addition to all the great products and services, seminars were held on the topics of energy policy, demand response, green buildings, alternative-fuel vehicles and energy management. So much to learn, so little time!