Rocky Mountain Power asks Utahns to help pick top Wattsmart video

Rocky Mountain Power is asking its customers for a little help judging its 2013 Act Wattsmart video contest.

The contest, in its second year, is designed to increase public awareness of the programs the utility offers that can lead to lower monthly power bills through wiser energy use.

"We received 67 video entries for our 2013 contest, which was more than double the number of entries we had in 2011," said spokesman Jeff Hymas.

He added that a panel of judges will choose one "Best Video" grand prize winner, to receive up to $10,000 in energy-efficiency merchandise, and two "Best Video" runners-up, who will each receive up to $2,500 in merchandise available at Lowe's home improvement stores.

There also will be a "People's Choice" winner, who will be selected by Rocky Mountain's customers. To participate, view the videos at www.wattsmart.com and cast your vote for a favorite. One vote is permitted each day through June 30. The "People's Choice" winner will receive up to $2,000 in merchandise at Lowe's.

In addition, the names of each voter will be entered in a random drawing to receive a"Voter's Award" of up to $500 in merchandise.

The 2011 contest was won by Jessica and Marty Patch of Salt Lake City.

Their video, "Our Energy Story," described how, in refurbishing an older home, they were able to reduce monthly power bills by 20 percent by taking a number of steps. The actions included adding insulation to their attic, installing skylights, purchasing a 98 percent efficiency heating and cooling system, and placing florescent bulbs in all fixtures.

"We're very pleased with the overall quality of the videos submitted in this year's contest and impressed by the fun, smart and unique ways Utahns chose to share their ideas about how to be energy efficient," Hymas said.

Contest winners are expected to be announced in early August. —

To participate and view the videos

O Go to www.wattsmart.com