AUGUSTA -- The Governor's Office of Energy Independence and Security and the Maine Public Utilities Commission's Efficiency Maine program are sponsoring the sixth annual Energy Saving Tips Contest for students in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades.

October is Energy Awareness Month, and to kick it off, Gov. John Baldacci is encouraging students to submit one or two tips on how to save energy in their homes or schools.

He will present the winners with a solar-powered iPod Shuffle at a special award ceremony in December.

"We want to inspire students to talk about saving energy in their homes and schools and also learn how simple changes can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," Baldacci said.

"The earlier we get our students focused on these issues and what they can do, the better the outcome will be for Maine and the world. Their children and grandchildren will be living with the consequences of energy decisions made now."

Winning suggestions in prior contests have included using sensor lights in schools to save money, from Brian Allen, a fourth-grader from Hall-Dale Elementary School, in Hallowell.

To help students come up with ideas for the contest and to learn about the "energy hogs" found in most homes, they can visit http://www.energyhog.org/

childrens.htm.

Contest entries must be postmarked by Oct. 31 and sent to Joy Adamson, Efficiency Maine Educational Program Manager for the Maine Public Utilities Commission at 18 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0018.

Entries must include the student's name, the school's name, school address, teacher and grade.

There are two entry categories: tips for saving energy in your home and tips for saving energy at your school.

Winners will be chosen on Nov. 14.

For further information on the contest, contact Joy Adamson at 287-8350 or at joy.adamson@maine.gov.