NEW BRITAIN — Registration is now open for the 21st annual eesmarts Student Contest, which encourages students across Connecticut to learn about saving energy and protecting the environment.
The program invites students in kindergarten through 12th grade to show what they know about energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainability. Registration is open through March 20, and all projects must be submitted by March 27.
Through grade-level prompts, students are asked to think about how simple actions and new ideas can help save energy and protect natural resources. Projects are designed to match students’ ages and skills, offering creative ways for them to share their ideas.
“For two decades, the EESMarts Student Contest has underscored the sponsors’ commitment to education, environmental stewardship, and driving progress toward a clean energy future,” Eversource Director of Energy Efficiency Stephen Bruno said. “We’re proud to champion initiatives like this that are equipping the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and tools they need to turn innovative ideas into real-world solutions that advance sustainability and energy efficiency.”
Students in grades K through 8 can choose from a variety of creative formats. Younger students in kindergarten through second grade are asked to design a poster. Third graders write limericks, while fourth graders create an outdoor billboard. Fifth-grade students write a fictional story that includes an energy-saving character. Sixth graders write a persuasive letter, seventh graders create a comic strip, and eighth graders design a social media post focused on saving energy.
High school students in grades 9 through 12 are given a different challenge. They must create a persuasive image using words or pictures to support an energy-saving or sustainability topic. This can include a short poem of 125 words or fewer or a cartoon strip with no more than 12 panels. Entries will be judged on how accurate the science is and how clearly and strongly the message is shared.
“Whether through art, writing or hands-on projects, every year students throughout Connecticut show us that the smallest energy-saving ideas can spark meaningful change,” said Marissa Westbrook, senior manager of conservation and load management at UI, SCG and CNG. “Their ingenuity and problem-solving skills displayed through their projects remind us that building an energy-conscious future starts with simple positive energy habits at a young age — and a willingness to imagine what’s possible. I have no doubt that this year will be the same and am excited to see all the students’ inventive ideas.”
All projects must be completed by the student submitting the entry. Group projects are not allowed.
Finalists from all grade levels and categories will be recognized at an awards ceremony in May at the Connecticut Science Center. Winners will receive a certificate and a gift card.