MADISON, Wis. -- A local man said he believes learning how the smallest step can make a big difference when trying to live an eco-friendly life is important.

Gary Wolter, of Madison, is a living, working and driving example of what it means to "go green."

"We need to think about energy differently -- use energy differently," Wolter, CEO of Madision Gas & Electric, said.

Different may be the best way to consider the power of the sun.

Wolter said he's trying to do more talking and walking toward an energy-efficient lifestyle.

"What I'm seeing is the community going green. I see the general climate, general tone of both community and country, going more green," Wolter said.

The general green interest is helping push for demo projects like solar units, which can be found on the grounds of the Lussier Family Heritage Center on Madison's south side.

The panels are also on the Madison Gas And Electric Grid, providing a small amount of power to the company.

But Wolter said he also wants to push for what's possible.

"It's important for a community to think about energy differently by putting in these community gathering spots (and) making them visible, and when you see them, start thinking about energy future in a different way," Wolter said.

Wolter's is also practicing what he preaches. He's swapped out old light bulbs for the energy-saving compact fluorescent bulbs and drives a Hybrid car that gets him 34 miles per gallon. Wolters said he is always looking for the next eco-friendly opportunity.

"Buying the next vehicle, next light bulbs, decisions on next appliances, compact fluorescents -- we want you to be able to understand your energy usage," Wolter said.

Wolter said he is also encouraging community workshops, like one that was held on Madison's east side Wednesday night, to spread the word to go green.

He said it's putting MG&E on the forefront of the green movement and helping local residents learn how easy it is to try it in their own lives.

Wolter said it's the satisfaction of knowing the he's making a difference, professionally and personally, that make it worthwhile. He said lowering the thermostat, buying Energy-Star appliances, and shutting off computers and TVs that one isn't using are a few other simple steps to start saving energy.

Wolter said some easy steps that anyone can do include:

• lowering thermostats in the winter
• replacing old light bulbs with low-energy fluorescent bulbs
• doing laundry in cold water
• buying Energy-Star appliances
• turning off things not in use

Wolter said MG&E will be hosting two more community workshops that will promote "going green" soon. The first Power of Tomorrow workshop will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m. The second will be on the following day, Thursday, Oct. 11, at 1:30 p.m.

Both will be held in Fitchburg at the Quality Inn and Suites.

Anyone can go to MG&E's Web site to register and get more information.