Energy-efficient lighting saves money and electricity: Rebates available for a limited time on energy efficient lighting
By Contributor
Spend less for the same result; that’s why switching to energy efficient ENERGY STAR® LEDs and CFLs light bulbs makes sense. And, when FortisBC electric customers purchase qualifying ENERGY STAR lighting before April 30, there are rebates available to help them start saving sooner.
“Switching to CFLs and LEDs is an easy and convenient way to save money and electricity,” said Tom Loski, vice president, customer service, FortisBC. “These bulbs use 75 to 85 per cent less electricity to provide the same amount of light.”
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have long been thought of as an energy-efficient option for decorative outdoor lighting, LEDs are now available for both home and office and, according to Natural Resources Canada, use up to 80 per cent less electricity than incandescent bulbs.
FortisBC will cover 50 per cent of the cost of Energy Star-rated LED bulbs, up to $15 for bulbs less than 10 Watts and up to $30 for bulbs 10 Watts and higher. These rebates make LEDs more affordable especially when used to replace heavily used lights in busy areas of the home such as a kitchen.
As well as LEDs, Compact Fluorescents (CFLs) are also an option to save energy on lighting. CFLs now come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colours and even dimmable options. They use up to 75 per cent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. To help customers make the switch, FortisBC will currently pay 50 per cent of the cost up to $2.50 for each qualified, Energy Star-rated specialty CFL.
The lighting rebates are automatically applied to qualified Energy Star lighting purchased from Canadian Tire, Costco, Overwaitea Food Group, Save On Foods, London Drugs, Home Depot, Coopers and other participating lighting retailers and receive an instant rebate at the time of purchase. For qualifying products purchased from other retailers, customers can send in a mail-in rebate, available in-store or online. Customers who receive an instant, in-store rebate, are not eligible for additional mail-in rebates.
These rebates are available to electric customers of FortisBC and of Grand Forks, Kelowna, Summerland, Penticton and Nelson Hydro.
For more information on energy efficiency tips, rebates and programs to help save energy in homes or businesses, contact a local PowerSense representative by calling 1-866-436-7847, email powersense@fortisbc.com or visit fortisbc.com.
