Rick Muehlke is canvassing door to door in Cambridge. He’s talking with residents about ways they can save energy, to help Cambridge win $5 million in the Georgetown University Energy Prize.
Canvassing door to door is challenging work, but Rick knows people need to take action to reduce energy demands and help our city beat the 49 other U.S. cities competing for the prize. He also knows people are more likely take action when someone talks with them face-to-face.
Rick has done canvassing work for years, but he started to canvass in Cambridge on March 18. Rick explained, “It’s hard work, but it’s all worth it, to help reduce carbon emissions and help people save money by saving energy.” On a good day, Rick will knock on 50 doors, speak with 20 or more people, and a half-dozen or more will commit to energy-saving action.
The door-to-door canvass that Rick is part of is supported by the City of Cambridge, Cambridge Energy Alliance, and the Boston-based business, Next Step Living. On behalf of Cambridge Energy Alliance, Rick asks residents to take measures such as scheduling a no-cost Mass Save home energy assessment, weatherizing their home, or installing solar panels. Any of these measures will help Cambridge win the Georgetown University Energy Prize. Any of these measures will also save energy and money on a resident’s energy bills.
Last week, Rick had an unusual experience. Normally, he proceeds from door to door without much interruption. “A guy saw I was canvassing for Cambridge Energy Alliance and called to me from across the street. I crossed the street to him, and he scheduled a no-cost home energy assessment.” said Rick, “I didn’t even need to knock on his door! If everyone were that pro-active it would sure help Cambridge win the prize.”
Cambridge Energy Alliance plans for the canvass to continue from neighborhood to neighborhood with a 100% participation goal. The canvass is one of many initiatives being taken to help win the Georgetown University Energy Prize. All residents of Cambridge are encouraged to reduce their energy using ideas such as on the Cambridge Energy Alliance website. Volunteers are needed to help the city reduce its energy use. Please contact outreach@cambridgeenergyalliance.org if you are interested in getting involved.
Have you and your friends had your no-cost home energy assessment yet? No need to wait for Rick to come to your door, get started here.
