Energy Lecture Series

The EEC is proud to sponsor the Plugged Into Energy Research (PIER) Lecture Series, an initiative led by the University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension. Since 2015, the PIER Series has featured local industry experts, thought leaders, and community members who break down complex topics, spark dialogue, and deepen public understanding of the energy challenges and opportunities facing Rhode Island. The series explores how energy systems shape our daily lives and long-term future, connecting Rhode Island’s priorities with broader energy trends.

The goal of the PIER Lecture Series is to strengthen energy literacy across the state and provide accessible, science-based insights on the most pressing energy topics. Join us each fall at the URI Kingston Campus or via livestream, and browse the full archive of past sessions below.

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2025 ENERGY LECTURE SERIES

Looking for ways to make your home more comfortable while saving money on energy bills? Join us for the Fall 2025 URI Plugged Into Energy Research lecture series: Energy Efficiency for All.

Lecture #1: Powering Comfort and Cost Savings: Rhode Island Voices on Home Weatherization, Part 1

*This session is in Spanish with English translation available.

This workshop highlights the personal experiences of renters and landlords who have taken part in the home weatherization process through RI’s energy efficiency programs. Learn about the importance of weatherization (e.g. insulation) for human health and comfort, money savings and climate change mitigation. For landlords – learn about incentives to participate. For renters – get tips on how to talk to landlords about getting started. Details are shared about RI Energy’s Landlord Information Sessions, and attendees had the opportunity to schedule an in-home energy assessment with help from RI Energy’s Customer Advocates.

Lecture #2: Powering Comfort and Cost Savings: Rhode Island Voices on Home Weatherization, Part 2

*This session is in English with Spanish translation available.

Looking for ways to increase comfort in your home all year, and save on energy bills? Hear real stories from Rhode Island homeowners and community health workers who have taken part in local home weatherization programs. Learn about the importance of weatherization (e.g. insulation) for health, comfort, and budget—and also the environment. Attendees had the chance to sign up for a no-cost home energy assessment with support from The RISE Group. Simple energy upgrades can make a big difference for your home, your wallet, and the planet!

Lecture #3: Tackling Energy Inequity Through Community Collaboration

*This session is in English with Spanish translation available.

Persistent nonparticipation in residential energy efficiency programs remains a challenge—particularly among ratepayers with the highest energy burdens, even in Rhode Island where progressive policies and monetary investments are longstanding. This lecture highlights current structural and relational efforts in response to nonparticipation, and explore ways to elevate community voices to inform impactful, realistic policymaking and achieve transformational change. Speakers discuss findings and takeaways from initiatives such as the RI Equity Working Group, RI Energy’s Landlord Information Sessions, and the Efficient Housing for All Community of Practice.