As part of its efforts to “go green,” Elon University is replacing incandescent light bulbs with more energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs in buildings across campus. Details...
Beginning immediately, physical plant workers will install compact fluorescent bulbs wherever possible on campus. The Energy Star-rated bulbs provide the same illumination as incandescent lights while using much less energy. For example, a 60-watt incandescent bulb can be replaced with an equivalent fluorescent bulb that uses 13 to 15 watts of power, resulting in a 75 percent reduction in energy consumption.
Studies have also shown that compact fluorescents last eight to 15 times longer than conventional incandescents.
“Many folks are deterred by the higher initial cost of the bulbs compared to the old-fashioned incandescent bulbs,” said Ed Eng, director of Elon’s physical plant. “But if you consider the energy savings, the longer life of the compact fluorescent bulb and the positive environmental impact, using compact fluorescent bulbs is the more sustainable alternative.”
The replacement of incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents is gaining momentum worldwide. Australia has banned incandescents with a goal of having them phased out by 2009, and California is considering a bill in the legislature to prohibit the sale of incandescent bulbs in the state by 2012.
According to Energy Star, if every American home replaced one incandescent bulb with a compact fluorescent, the country would save enough energy to light more than 2.5 million homes for a year.