A TWO day Energy Expo which will offer local people advice on saving energy and sustainable living has started today.

The Department of Economic Development is hosting the event at the Isle of Man College.

Businesses organisations and local producers will be on hand to discuss energy saving ideas with the theme of this year's event being renewable energy.

Today a number of Island businesses and the public sector will be recognised for their part in reducing energy consumption and improving the efficiency of their organisation.

The annual Energy Champions Awards are divided into three categories – most innovative energy saving project, energy champion best practice and largest saving for a project.

Winners will recieve a framed certificate and award.

Economic Development Minister Allan Bell MHK said: "My department's aim is to encourage businesses and individuals to consider how our world will look in five to 10 years time or even further ahead.

"With the assistance of those taking part in our expo we should also consider how ever-increasing fuel prices and the effects of climate change will affect the way we work, live, travel and play, and how we will adapt to this new environment.

"Our goal is to raise awareness and challenge some of the assumptions that we each make in terms of how housing, transport and both commercial and public services will look in the future."

The awards will take place between 3pm and 5pm. Between this time there will also be a business synergies facility launched and a business to business networking event.

For more information on the Energy Expo 2011 visit www.energyexpo.im. The event will continue tomorrow from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.