Do you have outdoor yard lighting on your property? Switching to LEDs might help you reduce your electric bill. We spoke with Brian Jeremiason, Energy Services Manager with Lyon-Lincoln Electric Cooperative, to learn about the program that they are offering their customers.
Joel Haskard: What are some of the most common applications for yard lighting?
Brian Jeremiason: The most common yard light applications are Safety and Security. The lights help our members navigate their yards safely, they also discourage trespassing and theft.
Joel Haskard: Tell us about your outdoor yard light program for your customers. Why switch to LED outdoor yard lighting?
Brian Jeremiason: In addition to the energy savings we’ll be able to pass on to our members, the LED yard lighting will also reduce the number and frequency of maintenance calls. It’s truly a win-win for the cooperative and its members.
Joel Haskard: Do you have any advice for people interested in purchasing and installing LED outdoor yard lighting?
Brian Jeremiason: Understand your goals and the area you want covered by the light and use an appropriate device. There are many features and types of lights available, using the appropriate light will provide the most benefit and address possible concerns.
Joel Haskard: What lighting technology are you offering?
Brian Jeremiason: We are currently installing a 48 W Caretaker LED from Cooper Lighting.
Joel Haskard: How have people liked the color and brightness of the lights so far?
Brian Jeremiason: The color and brightness have been well received. There are some differences in the direction and coverage area of the lights. Also, without a globe the lights aren’t seen from a distance, while yard brightness improves – you can’t check to see if the neighbors’ yard light is on?
Joel Haskard: What kinds of up-front costs are you seeing, and how much energy are your members saving?
Brian Jeremiason: Our upfront costs vary, depending on a number of factors, at this time we’re collecting a portion of the cost from our members through a $175 contribution they make towards the upgrade of the light. The existing lights we have in place include Mercury Vapor 175 Watt and High-Pressure Sodium 100 watt bulbs. Assuming an average of 9 hours of darkness per night (actual range can go from 7 hours in the summer to 12 hours in the winter), and adding in the energy used by the ballast existing lighting can use between 434 and 657 kWh per year. The conversion to LED would reduce that energy use to around 158 kWh per year. With current rates, that saves the member $27-$49 per year.
Joel Haskard: What services do you provide—do you walk people through each step of the upgrade process?
Brian Jeremiason: We provide the light fixture and installation. We also include a warranty and will service the light in the future, if needed.
Joel Haskard: What are the rebate values offered by LLEC, and how do people apply for rebates?
Brian Jeremiason: The upgrade is cost shared on the yard lighting upgrade. We also offer rebates for residential lighting retrofits and commercial and ag lighting efficiency as well. The rebates range from 15-30 cents per watt saved. Members can apply by visiting our website or by calling or stopping by our office.
Click here to learn more about Lyon-Lincoln lighting rebates >>
