Oct 19 2010
The Department of Energy’s (DOE) new regulations have started a plan to eliminate all conventional T12 ballasts and lamps by July 2012. The National Lighting Bureau (NLB) has predicted that more than 500 million T12 lamps are currently in use.
Even the T12 lamps are widely used, they are well known as inefficient and outdated technology. T12s can be replaced with durable, energy-saving T5 or T8 fluorescent lamps that offer better light quality.
The replacement of a magnetic ballast and T12 lamp with a T8 lamp and electronic ballast saves 30% to 40% of energy costs. Rebates provided by local utility companies can help to reduce 60% – 100% of the upgrade costs. Managers and owners can gain tax benefits of as much as $0.60/square foot, by utilizing the Commercial Building Tax Deduction (CBTD).
ReGreen’s Director of Operations, Sean Neman stated that the upgrade to T5s or T8s would compensate for itself within one year of time, with the help of the energy cost savings, tax incentives, and rebates. Neman added that people should utilize the available incentives and rebates.
ReGreen has aided more than 3,000 properties in reducing operational costs and improving energy efficiency. The service offered by the company include lighting retrofits and upgrades, solar/PV installations, HVAC upgrades and maintenance, water upgrades and retrofits, and retrocommissioning.