Energy customers in Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania will soon find it easier to “lighten up” at home as they phase out inefficient incandescent bulbs in favor of compact fluorescent bulbs, or CFLs. Ecos recently was awarded a lighting program contract with PECO.
“We’re pleased to be awarded this contract,” said Dave Backen, director of Utility Clients. “Not only does it give Ecos the opportunity to bring more CFLs into new markets, it makes us a true ‘coast-to-coast’ third party contractor for high-quality, cost-effective residential efficiency programs.”
For PECO, Ecos plans to provide incentives for over 6.6 million CFLs over the next three years, resulting in an annual estimated energy savings of 297,658 MWh (at 44.79 kWh per bulb), by partnering with manufacturers and retailers to offer incentives to customers at the time of sale. This winning formula not only makes it easier for customers to find and save on CFLs, and brings the utility necessary kWh savings, it also helps retailers move more products with the help of field visits and in-store outreach promotions.
As is the standard with most Ecos lighting programs, there will be a recycling component. “As more customers adopt CFLs, the question is asked more often about disposing of the bulbs responsibly,” said Senior Program Manager Monica Blakeslee. “Customers will find recycling information in stores and at outreach events, as well as on the program’s web site.”
Ecos is also working with PECO to identify emerging lighting technologies in the program plan. These technologies will be more in demand from lighting consumers once new efficiency standards take effect in the coming years.
The program will feature a robust marketing plan, with opportunities for retail and community outreach events to educate consumers on the features and benefits of CFLs. “The timing of these programs couldn’t be better,” said Blakeslee. “As consumers read more about mandatory reductions in energy use for lighting taking place in 2012, they’ll want to know what they can do. The utility-sponsored discounts will make it more affordable to make the switch.”
