Saving Money with ENERGY STAR® Qualified Lighting Fixtures
October 2011
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Manufacturers are now producing energy efficient lighting systems for a number of applications.
Lighting accounts for about 11 percent of electricity use in a Canadian home. With an average of 30 light fixtures per home, lighting fixtures consume close to $130 worth of electricity every year.
Energy costs go up in the winter because of heating needs, but during the longer nights we also spend more time indoors with the lights on. ENERGY STAR qualified lighting fixtures offer a new way to save money on electricity bills year round.
Choosing ENERGY STAR qualified lighting fixtures offers numerous additional benefits compared with conventional lighting systems. They use at least 67 percent less energy than traditional fixtures. Qualified fixtures have a minimum two-year warranty, which is twice the industry standard. And they are also designed specifically to work with high-efficiency bulbs, which ensure a longer bulb life.
Lighting in Style
Manufacturers are now producing fluorescent and LED (light emitting diode) lighting systems for a number of applications and with a wide range of aesthetics. They include outdoor lights, chandeliers, pot lights, wall sconces, vanity lights and table and floor lamps. If you need a light, there’s an excellent chance you can find an ENERGY STAR qualified fixture to meet your needs and your style.
Spreading the Word about Energy-Efficient Lighting
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ENERGY STAR qualified lighting fixtures use at least 67 percent less energy than traditional fixtures.
In October 2010, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) partnered with the Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) on a national campaign to increase consumer awareness of ENERGY STAR qualified light fixtures for homes and businesses.
“The partnership is a natural one,” says Pierre Guimond, CEA President and CEO.“CEA and its members welcomed the opportunity to work with NRCan and retail partners to provide ways that will help Canadians to better manage their electricity consumption, and consequently their bill.”
As a result of the campaign, CEA and NRCan learned that the issue with ENERGY STAR qualified fixtures is not awareness but availability. Now, fixtures can easily be found at most major retailers across the country as well as at local specialty lighting stores. And if you can't find qualified fixtures in a retail outlet, ask a salesperson for help as most fixtures can be ordered from the manufacturer's catalogue.
About ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR identifies products that meet or exceed high energy efficiency levels without compromising performance, allowing for a trusted product that saves you money. The ENERGY STAR symbol appears on products such as lighting, home electronics, major appliances, windows, heating and air conditioning equipment. NRCan’s Office of Energy Efficiency administers and promotes the use of the mark in Canada.
For more information about energy-efficient lighting and the ENERGY STAR program, visit the Office of Energy Efficiency Web page.
To read about related articles, see Energy Efficiency
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