Since updated lighting standards have been in effect since 2012, chances are you have already taken the initiative to replace your incandescent light bulbs with more energy efficient ones, but if you are looking for a way to take it to the next level in the new year, consider purchasing LEDs. LEDs are the best choice for the environment: they are non-toxic and there is less energy wasted than with other lighting choices. According to energy.gov they have a life of over 25,000 hours (that’s about 3 years if you left the light on 24/7!). This chart from Gridwatch.co.uk provides a breakdown of various lighting sources to show the difference.
Lighting Technology (800 Lumens)
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Daily Kwh Consumed (@8hr)
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Annual Kwh Consumed (@8hr/day)
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Co2 Produced (Coal Based Power Generation)
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Incandescent (60 Watts)
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0.48
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175.2
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152.42 Kg
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Halogen (42 Watts)
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0.34
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124.1
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107.96 Kg
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CFL (14 Watts)
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0.11
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40.15
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34.93 Kg
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LED (9 Watts)
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0.07
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25.55
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22.23 Kg
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According to the chart above, switching from incandescent light to LEDs would save you 287 CO2 per year, which is equivalent to 14.6 gallons of gasoline!
To make your home lighting even more efficient (and more fun!), consider purchasing timers or photocells to save even more electricity. A lot of LEDs work well with this technology and are available in various colors to create some added fun in your house.
Hope these tips help make your 2021 a bit brighter, a bit better for the planet and a bit kinder to your wallet. If you are looking for a real challenge, check out this mini quiz from the New York Times to see how you are doing with your climate choices. (Warning: it’s hard! Out of 965 people, no one got 4 out of 4 correct!)
Ready to take action? We will track your emissions for you and send you regular reports.
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