With winter on the way, Murfreesboro Electric Department is offering two free, hands-on workshops to help customers lower their electric bill. Using simple, every day techniques, the Do-It-Yourself workshops will teach customers how to reduce their energy consumption while keeping out the cold and keeping energy rates low.

This is part of MED's week long celebration of Public Power Week from October 12 to October 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each year, MED hosts the week-long event in their lobby to teach their customers about the benefits of public power, as well as the many different programs offered by MED.

At the workshops, MED customers will learn about the importance of thermostat settings, how to weather-strip an exterior door, how to caulk around windows and baseboards and how to seal air leaks with spray foam.

They'll also learn why it's important to save energy, how to preserve valuable natural resources and how their own energy usage affects everyone. In addition, they'll get a chance to meet their neighbors and have a little fun while learning valuable techniques for saving money.

"Creating an energy-efficient city is one of those things we all have to work together to achieve," said Steve Sax, general manager for MED. "This is a great opportunity for individual households to learn about small steps they can take that can have a big effect on their energy bill."

"We are also proud to show the new programs we have to offer this year," says Amy Byers, director of marketing at MED. "We have continued to invest in ways that make our customer's lives easier, such as our SmartHub program." SmartHub allows MED customers to view their electric usage and pay their bill from their smartphone.

During the workshops, participating households will receive a free, energy-saving toolkit that includes caulk, expanding foam as well as CFL's, weather-stripping and water heater pipe insulation. The workshops will take place on October 13 and 15 at 7 p.m. in the Community Room at MED's office. Those attending should enter through the parking lot on N. Front Street. For more information or to register, email marketing@medtn.com or call 615-494-0407.