Sebelius encourages Kansans to help save energy
Governor urges consumers to purchase energy efficient light bulbs

As the signs of fall begin to appear, daylight hours diminish, resulting in higher lighting bills. 

In an effort to help save energy and money, and as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Governor Kathleen Sebelius is urging Kansans to switch to light bulbs that carry the Energy Star label – a sign of their efficiency.

“Swings in energy prices have reinforced the need for increased energy conservation,” said Sebelius.  “Switching to energy-efficient lighting is a simple step we can each take to reduce energy consumption, which will save money and reduce pollution.”

Sebelius and the Kansas Corporation Commission have joined the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, to educate citizens about energy efficiency during October and November. 

Now in its seventh year, the nationwide campaign is aimed at reducing energy needs, protecting the environment and helping citizens save money on their electric bills, all by simply replacing inefficient light bulbs in homes and businesses.  Consumers are encouraged to switch to light fixtures or bulbs that have earned the Energy Star label, which designates products that meet strict energy efficiency standards.

According to the government’s Energy Star program, qualified light bulbs use at least two-thirds less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to ten times longer.  By replacing a 60-watt incandescent light bulb with an equally bright 13-watt Energy Star-qualified light bulb, a household will save more than $30 in energy costs over the lifetime of the bulb.  Based on the average electrical rates in Kansas, the amount of energy saved would reduce household electrical bills by a combined total of $4.4 million a year.  

Additionally, the Kansas Corporation Commission is also working to help Kansans conserve energy.  The Kansas Warm Homes Project will distribute conservation kits to targeted, low-income households across the state at the end of October.  These kits will help winterize homes, helping all Kansans save energy and prepare for cold weather.  In total, the agency will distribute 25,000 compact fluorescent light bulbs to families in need. 

For more information on this energy conservation campaign, visit: www.energystar.gov/changealight or http://www.kcc.state.ks.us/energy/kswarmhomes.htm.

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