PITTSFIELD -- Energy, and how to save it, will take center stage again on Monday night.

The town will hold its second Pittsfield Area Energy Forum from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday at the Vickery School gymnasium off School Street.

The idea is to foster education and discussion on energy issues so that residents, business owners and organizations can save both energy and money.

The first forum was such a success last year that town officials have enlisted more support for this year's event. The event is hosted by the Pittsfield Recycling Committee. It will include a keynote speaker, display tables with information from participating organizations and vendors selling merchandise.

"We have talked to well over 40 companies, agencies and organizations. There has been significant interest in attending this event," said Town Manager Kathryn Ruth. "The focus of the evening is to provide information and options for individuals, businesses and organizations to explore in order to be more energy-conscious and to better be able to make decisions that will assist with energy conservation and the cost of services."

Display tables will cover topics such as composting, energy-reduction tips, financial programs, organic farming, solar programs, weatherization products and windmills and wind power.

Ruth said the display tables will offer attendees information "how to not only reduce our costs but also to reduce our use of our natural resources."

Pittsfield Mayor Timothy Nichols will officially welcome attendees to the forum at 7 p.m.

Keynote speaker Richard Fortier will talk from 7:15 to 8 p.m. on "tracking and reducing your energy cost." Fortier is the solar program manager for the Maine Public Utilities Commission, which regulates water, electricity, gas and telephone utilities for Maine.

The solar program includes solar energy rebates for Maine residents. The rebates apply to solar electric and thermal energy systems purchased after July 1, 2005.

Also speaking will be Rep. Stacey Fitts, R-Pittsfield, legislator for House District 29. Fitts also serves on the Governor's Wind Power Task Force, which is reviewing regulations that affect the development of wind power projects. The task force is also identifying sites for wind farms in Maine.

Closing out the forum at 8 p.m., there will be a drawing for a free composter unit. Free refreshments will follow.

Scott Monroe -- 861-9253, 487-3288

smonroe@centralmaine.com