I had the honor on Friday of coming back to my home town of Fargo North Dakota last week and share the story of Microsoft Hohm as we announced the partnership with Xcel Energy. It was a warm and enthusiastic welcome for Hohm with the governor of North Dakota John Hoeven, U.S. Congressman Earl Pomeroy, Public Service Commissioner Tony Clark and Fargo Mayor Dennis Walaker all joining me to talk about the importance of energy efficiency.

As I looked out at the packed room of distinguished guests, government and community leaders, press, and Microsoft and Xcel Energy employees, I was reminded of the strength that comes with community. I talked with the Mayor about last season’s major flood and heard how Microsoft employees and other residents rallied together to help total strangers. We heard stories from Fargo residents how they learn about saving energy from their kids. And we heard how one idea or conversation can lead to great new solutions.

That’s one of the phenomenal powers of Microsoft Hohm. The energy issues facing the world are huge and often seem overwhelming. But everyone can do something about energy efficiency, whether it’s the Fargo mayor installing new windows, or turning off the lights when you leave a room. Microsoft Hohm and its recommendations get better each time a single home uses it, and as more and more use it, that Hohm community is becoming a positive force to help us all improve our energy consumption. I would personally like to welcome all the Xcel customers to the Hohm community, especially since part of this trip was to announce the partnership of Xcel Energy and Microsoft Hohm.

Thanks for the nice “Hohm” welcome Fargo – it was great to be “home”!