It seems that sustainability is one of today's most popular buzz words, especially in the environmentally conscious northwest. We hear about it often, but what do we really know about alternate sources of energy? The energy-conscious film 'The Power of the Sun' will screen in Portland twice and each screening is free. Hosted by amiable actor John Cleese, the film is informative and may answer some questions you have about solar energy.

The first 20 minutes deals with the nature of light and examines contributions made by scientists such as Sir Issac Newton and Albert Einstein. It's a little dry and technical but it probably helped me understand the subject better than my two years of high school chemistry and physics.

The second half is the most relevant as we learn about the history of solar power, its social and economic impact and what impact it might have in the near future. 'The Power of the Sun' also takes a look at how solar energy can and will help people in Third World nations.

After watching 'The Power of the Sun,' I wanted to run out and outfit my roof with solar panels, but then the reality of my finances kept me grounded in reality. Upgrading to solar power will be an interesting option as the prices continue to fall and I will continue to reevaluate how I consume energy. If you're interested in conservation or alternate energy, it's worth checking out. The film screens twice.

Tuesday, Jan. 9, 7:30 pm at the Bagdad Theater and

Wednesday, Jan. 10, 7:30 pm at Portland State University's Smith Center Ballroom

Both sessions are free and both will conclude with a question and answer session with the writer, UCSB physics professor John Perlin.

http://www.all-renewable-energy.com/events.htm