Q: While an electrician was doing some wiring work in my store, he said that I’m overpaying for lighting. He said that my overhead fluorescent tubes are T12s and that they’re energy wasters. He offered to get me low-energy lights called HPT8s that he says work as well. This is the first time I’ve had him in the store since my old electrician retired. What’s your take on his advice? - WT, Windsor County, VT
A:
Dan: Your new electrician knows what he’s talking about. In fact, by federal law, T12s won’t be manufactured after July 14, 2012 because of their high energy use. As for HPT8s (High Performance T8s), they’re exactly what I’d recommend. They use up to 50% less energy than T12s and can last as much as twice as long, which means less cost to you for future tube replacements and associated maintenance time. HPT8s also provide better quality light than T12s and, because they operate cooler, can mean lower air conditioning costs in certain spaces.
Paul: From a financial standpoint, your electrician couldn’t have chosen a better time to give his advice. Efficiency Vermont is offering special, higher rebates that cover up to 50% of the equipment costs (and, in some cases, even more) of specified replacements for T12s. These rebates also apply to upgrades from HID high-bay lighting systems. Be aware that these rebates are good only for installations completed by December 1, 2011.
Dan: It’s also important to keep in mind that, because T12s won’t be manufactured after 2012, you eventually won’t be able to find replacements for burned-out T12s.
Paul: That’s right, so the bottom line is: You’ll have to replace your T12s eventually and this is the most cost-effective time to do it. That’s not only because of Efficiency Vermont’s limited-time rebates, but also because you’ll start reaping the benefits of lower electricity costs and higher-quality lighting sooner. And based on typical commercial use (10 hours per weekday), the new HPT8 bulbs will last up to 10 years before you need to replace them.
Dan: I should point out that there’s a way to get even bigger energy savings from this lighting change. (And there’s a rebate connected to this too. More on that from Paul, below.) Whenever I talk with a business owner who is planning a lighting upgrade, I explain that energy savings come from more than just the kind of lighting you choose. Savings also come from locating and aiming your lights in a way to illuminate only where you need it. With that kind of sensible lighting design, it’s possible to actually reduce the amount of lighting you’ll need to buy. That means a lower initial cost and lower utility bills.
Paul: The rebate Dan just mentioned is available to Vermont businesses working with a professional lighting designer. Depending on building type, size, and energy savings, it typically covers 50 to 100% of the lighting designer’s audit cost. Working with a lighting designer can increase energy savings by an average of 40% compared to simple one-for-one replacements of old lighting with new. Quality lighting design also can provide more uniform light, improved light levels, better visibility, and enhanced safety. And a well-lit space can mean higher staff morale and productivity as well as a retail environment where customers prefer to shop.
Dan: To get T12-replacement rebates, check out the newLIGHT program. To learn about lighting designer rebates and to find a list of participating designers, check out the RELIGHT Lighting Design Program. Also at Efficiency Vermont’s site, you can find rebate forms for a range of energy-saving lighting and equipment purchases. Good luck with your lighting upgrade and congratulations on choosing a knowledgeable electrician.