“Bulb Blitz” Challenge Reaches Maui

CFL light bulbs. Courtesy of Hawaii Energy.

By Sonia Isotov

Hawaii Energy, the conservation and efficiency program for Hawaii, Honolulu and Maui counties has been encouraging residents to take its Three CFL Challenge.

The challenge involves replacing a minimum of three or more old-fashioned incandescent light bulbs with energy-saving compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).

In addition to instant rebates and other incentives, Hawaii Energy is funding Blue Planet Foundation to bring its signature CFL exchange program to residents on Maui and Hawaii Island.  Being called the “Maui Bulb Blitz” and “Big Island Bulb Blitz,” the CFL exchanges will allow residents to trade energy draining incandescent bulbs for CFLs.

“We are excited about partnering with Hawaii Energy to expand Blue Planet’s CFL program to Maui and Hawaii Island,” said Blue Planet Executive Director Jeff Mikulina, in a written statement.  “Neighbor island residents pay some of the highest electricity rates in the country, and they stand to benefit most from adopting smart efficiency solutions like energy-saving CFLs.”

CFL light buls. Courtesy of Hawaii Energy.

As an added incentive for taking the challenge, Hawaii Energy has increased the instant cash-back rebate on ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs at participating retailers for a limited time to help everyone cope with the high electricity prices.

“Replacing just three more incandescent bulbs with CFLs is one of the easiest and most cost effective things residents can do to save money,” said Ray Starling, Hawaii Energy Program Manager, in a written statement.  “Now is definitely the time for everyone in Hawaii to switch to CFLs, and there are three great reasons I can think of for doing so; savings, style and safety!”

By replacing three or more frequently used incandescent light bulbs with CFLs, savings can reach $100 a year for the average household in Hawaii, based on Oahu energy rates.  CFLs use 75% less energy and last nearly ten times as long as traditional incandescent light bulbs.  In most homes, the most frequently used fixtures are the ones located in the kitchen, living room, bathroom and outside.

“CFLs are probably the biggest revolution in light bulb technology in over 100 years, and they really have come a long way since they were first introduced,” stated Marion Philpotts-Miller, Partner and Principal Designer at Philpotts Interiors.

“CFLs now are available in many hues and color temperatures and a variety of different shapes and sizes.  With so many options, you can really get creative with how you use CFLs.”

CFLs are also the smart choice for those that are health conscious and environmentally friendly.  Incandescent light bulbs contain lead, and because incandescent bulbs consume more energy, they are responsible for a greater amount of pollution associated with electricity generation, including the release of trace amounts of mercury, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide into the surrounding environment.

“By taking the Three CFL Challenge, residents can help ensure that this is a much more energy efficient year for us all,” stated Derrick Sonoda, Hawaii Energy Marketing and Outreach Manager.  “The campaign’s goal of half a million CFLs would collectively save an estimated $8 million from residential electric bills in the first year alone.”

For more information regarding the Hawaii Energy Three CFL Challenge and other offers, please visit www.HawaiiEnergy.com.