At a free workshop April 6, Branford residents and businesses can learn about how they can benefit from Branford's partnering with CT Solar Challenge to bring in lower cost solar energy options to their homes or businesses. In addition, a portion of proceeds from any locally contracted work will go to benefit Branford Food Pantry. As an added bonus, the first 100 registrants attending the free workshop can trade in two used incandescent bulbs and receive two free energy efficient LED bulbs.

The following information has been released by CT Solar Challenge:

Branford Solar Challenge will hold a free solar workshop at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6 at the James Blackstone Memorial Library. Also attending will be New England Smart Energy, which will provide information on programs to increase energy efficiency at home and work.

"Our experts will be on-hand to explain state programs offering millions of dollars in rebates and incentives to go solar and make homes more energy efficient," CT Solar Challenge Director Maggie Treichel said. "Our mission is to make these programs understandable and accessible to Branford residents."

CT Solar Challenge is a grassroots community-based program that promotes solar energy through installation cost reduction, community outreach and education. The program's partners include the shoreline communities of Madison, Guilford, Westbrook, Old Saybrook and Clinton along with seven other Connecticut towns.

Aegis Solar Energy, the program's preferred contractor, will make a $75 donation to the Branford Food Pantry for every solar installation through the Branford Solar Challenge. Branford Food Pantry is a non-profit enterprise that last year assisted an average of 178 families a week, distributing an average of 21,300 pounds of food per month.

As an added bonus, solar workshop attendees will have the chance to swap their inefficient incandescent light bulbs for energy-saving LED models at no charge. The first 100 people to register and attend the event will receive two LED light bulbs in exchange for two incandescent bulbs. Registration is required. Sign up at CTSolarChallenge.com. Space is limited.

Other towns that have partnered with CT Solar Challenge are: Bethany, Chester, Derby, East Haven, Hamden, North Branford and Woodbridge. For more information on CT Solar Challenge, visit our website at www.ctsolarchallenge.com.