Which LED Products Should Be Selected? By Stan Walerczyk, CLEP, LC, Lighting Wizards
As you are probably already aware, there is a big range of excellent to very bad LED, which are also called solid state lighting (SSL), products. Some manufacturers are well known with proven track records and deep pockets, which may be necessary to handle potential large warranty issues. Other manufacturers may be relatively unknown, small, and under-funded, reselling imported products, and only in business for a year or two, so how good would their warranties be?
For those of you that have been in lighting long enough, you can remember that numerous electronic ballast manufacturers went out of business in the late 80s and early 90s, because they could not handle taking care of warranties. I have done a lot of research on SSL over the last three years, keeping track of performance and pricing improvements and evaluating how the best SSL products compare with high performance traditional products. I am also on the DOE CALiPER Guidance Committee.
With this expertise, I can usually provide very useful information at a very reasonable cost. My consulting fee can be a drop in the bucket compared to the problems from installing wrong products from wrong manufacturers.
If you are considering specifying or purchasing a specific SSL product, or if you want to know which SSL products or high performance incumbent technology products are the most cost effective solutions for specific applications, please call or email: 925-944-9481; stan@lightingwizards.com http://www.lightingwizards.com/ One freebie is avoid LED T8s…
On a related note, if you come to Lightfair this May, please attend my ‘How Do LEDs Compare With High Performance Fluorescent, Induction, Halogen, Plasma & HID’ workshop. http://www.lightfair.com/
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Monday, January 31, 2011
News Updates for the Week of January 31
1. Stock Market Changers to Watch -
• Consumer Confidence: Jan. 25 (Bloomberg) -- Confidence among U.S. consumers rose more than forecast in January, reaching an eight-month high, as the outlook for jobs brightened. The Conference Board’s sentiment index increased to 60.6 from 53.3 the prior month. Growing optimism, an improving labor market and tax relief may combine to help spur consumer spending, which accounts for about 70 percent of the economy.
• New Home Sales: Sales of new single-family houses in December 2010 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 329,000, according to estimates released jointly today 1/26 by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This is 17.5 percent above the revised November rate of 280,000, but is 7.6 percent below the December 2009 estimate of 356,000.
• Existing Home Sale: Existing-home sales rose sharply in December, when sales increased for the fifth time in the past six months, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Completed transactions of single-family houses, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops rose 12.3% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.28 million in December. Despite the surge, the figure is 2.9% below the 5.44 million-pace in December 2009.
• Federal Reserve Rate: Following its first meeting of 2011, the Federal Reserve announced plans to keep lending rates at existing levels. On Wednesday 1/26, the Fed's rate-setting committee again maintained its key lending rate -- known as the federal funds rate -- within a range of 0 percent to 0.25 percent. That decision also kept the prime rate at 3.25 percent.
• Durable Orders: New orders for durable goods unexpectedly dropped in December, according to the latest report from the Department of Commerce. Durable goods orders dropped 2.5% to $191 billion after dropping 0.1% in November. Consensus had projected a 1.5% increase.
• Jobless Claims: More Americans than forecast filed first-time claims for unemployment insurance payments last week, indicating it will take time for the labor market to mend. Applications for jobless benefits increased by 51,000 to 454,000 in the week ended Jan. 22, Economists forecast 405,000 claims, according to the median estimate in a Bloomberg News survey.
• GDP: Gross domestic product, the broadest measure of economic activity, rose at a 3.2 percent annual rate in the October through December quarter, the Commerce Department said Fri. 1/28, below analysts' expectations but up from 2.6 percent in the third quarter. GDP growth would have been much higher if businesses had not cut back aggressively on their inventories. Final demand, which excludes that inventory swing and is a good indicator of the underlying pace of growth, rose at a whopping 7.1 percent, the strongest since 1984. GDP will likely grow between 3 percent and 4 percent this year as long-term unemployment continues to drag on the economy.
2. Obama's Clean-Energy Goals Have Industry Questioning Feasibility - President Obama has grand plans for a green nation -- 1 million electric vehicles on the road within four years and clean power sources providing 80% of the nation's energy by 2035. 1/27 Los Angeles Times
3. 3 Giants Launch Venture to Fund Energy Tech Startups - GE, Conoco-Phillips and NRG Energy have partnered to create a venture to invest $300 million in early-stage energy technology firms. The partnership, Energy Technology Ventures http://www.energytechnologyventures.com/ will help fund 30 companies over the next four years, focusing on investments in North America, Europe and Israel. Target technologies will include renewable power generation -- an area where GE is already busy -- as well as smart grid technology, energy efficiency, oil, natural gas, coal and nuclear energy, emission controls, water and biofuels. 1/28 Houston Chronicle
4. AEP's Energy Efficiency Advisory Council Endorses New Standards, Tax Policies for Home Appliances -Today, members of American Electric Power's external Energy Efficiency Advisory Council sent a letter to the DOE urging adoption of the proposed Energy Efficient and Smart Appliance Agreement of 2010, which would set new minimum energy efficiency standards for home appliances, extend and update tax credits for the development and manufacturing of smart appliances, and include smart grid readiness as a feature of future ENERGY STAR qualified appliances. The letter sent by AEP's Energy Efficiency Advisory Council to the DOE can be accessed at http://www.aepsustainability.com/docs/US-DOE-AEP-EEAC.pdf More information is available at http://www.aham.org/industry/ht/d/sp/i/49934/pid/49934
5. The Following Resources for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) -
• Federal Government Recovery Act website: http://www.recovery.gov/
• DOE Recovery Act website: http://www.energy.gov/recovery/index.htm
• DOE Recovery Act Clearinghouse (Toll-Free): (888) 363-RCVY or (888) 363-7289
• EERE Recovery Act website: http://www.eere.energy.gov/recovery/
• For more information on project and funding opportunities visit: http://www.netl.doe.gov/
6. DOE Report Estimates LED Savings in Niche Markets - The DOE has released analysis findings for markets where LEDs compete with or are poised to compete with traditional lighting sources (e.g., incandescent and fluorescent). The January 2011 report provides estimates of current energy savings, plus potential savings if these markets switched to LEDs overnight. Twelve markets were analyzed:
• Four general-illumination applications (PAR, BR, and R replacement lamps; MR16 replacement lamps; 2-foot by 2-foot troffer fixtures; and general service A-type replacement lamps)
• Four outdoor applications (roadway, parking, area and flood, and residential)
• Four applications for consumer electronic displays (televisions, laptops, monitors, and mobile handsets).
To download a PDF of the report, go to www.ssl.energy.gov/tech_reports.html
7. LED Replacements for Edison's Light Bulb Expand - Today, 131 years after Thomas Edison was granted a patent for the incandescent light bulb, the push for more efficient lighting expands with an LED replacement touted to have Edison-like quality. Cree, Inc. has demonstrated the brightest, most-efficient, LED-based A-lamp that can meet ENERGY STAR® performance requirements for a 60-watt standard LED replacement bulb. This level of performance is the result of Cree TrueWhite® Technology and Cree remote-phosphor technology. http://www.truewhitelight.com/ http://www.cree.com/press/press_detail.asp?i=1296133896251 1/27 USA TODAY
8. IALD and ILP Sign MOU in Support of Lighting Design - The International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), an international organization supporting a network of 900 lighting design professionals and the Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP), the United Kingdom and Ireland's largest and most influential professional lighting association, recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work cooperatively toward developing the architectural lighting design profession and elevating awareness of quality lighting. 1/28 EC&M
9. Lime Energy Joins GE Lighting's Effort to Promote Greater Energy Efficiency Among Businesses - Lime Energy has joined GE Lighting's Energy Services Program. The Program involves a consortium of energy services consulting firms who work closely with GE to help commercial and industrial firms formulate strategies to optimize the financial and environmental returns available from improvements in building energy efficiency. Through its affiliation with GE, Lime Energy will also help companies identify available rebates, financing and government incentives. http://www.geconsumerandindustrial.com/environmentalinfo/regulations_resources/esco/find_an_esco.htm
10. National Grid Selects SmartWatt Energy for Small Business Energy Reduction Program in Northern NY Region - SmartWatt Energy, Inc., announced today that they have been awarded the Implementation Contractor and Administrator contract for National Grid's Small Business Energy Efficiency Program in the Northern NY Region. SmartWatt Energy estimates that as many as 12,000 small businesses in Northern NY will qualify for this Program. Business customers with an average demand use of 100 kilowatts of energy or less per month will qualify for the Program, in which National Grid provides rebates of up to 70% of the cost of the installation of energy efficient equipment. National Grid will also allow on-bill financing for the remaining 30% of the installation, interest-free for up to 24 months. Convenience stores, restaurants, warehouses, offices, car dealerships and light industrial manufacturers will all be helped by this Program. 1/27 http://www.smartwattenergy.com/
11. Customers Will Save Nearly $275 Million in Energy Costs with Bulbs Purchased Through Dominion VA's CFL Discount Program - The cost savings estimate is based on calculations made with information from EPA. Purchased with discounts since 2007 through the end of 2010, Dominion's programs have resulted in sales of approximately 6 million CFLs. Anticipated sales of 2 million CFLs this year will produce additional energy and cost savings for customers over the estimated 10-year life of the bulbs. 1/26 PRNewswire http://www.dom.com/
12. Turlock, CA Considers Lights Loan - The Turlock City Council are scheduled to consider a proposal to borrow $766,165 from the California Energy Commission to retrofit 2,000 streetlights with induction lights that use less electricity and last longer. The loan will augment $643,100 in federal stimulus funds the city received for the project. 1/23 The Modesto Bee
• Consumer Confidence: Jan. 25 (Bloomberg) -- Confidence among U.S. consumers rose more than forecast in January, reaching an eight-month high, as the outlook for jobs brightened. The Conference Board’s sentiment index increased to 60.6 from 53.3 the prior month. Growing optimism, an improving labor market and tax relief may combine to help spur consumer spending, which accounts for about 70 percent of the economy.
• New Home Sales: Sales of new single-family houses in December 2010 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 329,000, according to estimates released jointly today 1/26 by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This is 17.5 percent above the revised November rate of 280,000, but is 7.6 percent below the December 2009 estimate of 356,000.
• Existing Home Sale: Existing-home sales rose sharply in December, when sales increased for the fifth time in the past six months, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Completed transactions of single-family houses, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops rose 12.3% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.28 million in December. Despite the surge, the figure is 2.9% below the 5.44 million-pace in December 2009.
• Federal Reserve Rate: Following its first meeting of 2011, the Federal Reserve announced plans to keep lending rates at existing levels. On Wednesday 1/26, the Fed's rate-setting committee again maintained its key lending rate -- known as the federal funds rate -- within a range of 0 percent to 0.25 percent. That decision also kept the prime rate at 3.25 percent.
• Durable Orders: New orders for durable goods unexpectedly dropped in December, according to the latest report from the Department of Commerce. Durable goods orders dropped 2.5% to $191 billion after dropping 0.1% in November. Consensus had projected a 1.5% increase.
• Jobless Claims: More Americans than forecast filed first-time claims for unemployment insurance payments last week, indicating it will take time for the labor market to mend. Applications for jobless benefits increased by 51,000 to 454,000 in the week ended Jan. 22, Economists forecast 405,000 claims, according to the median estimate in a Bloomberg News survey.
• GDP: Gross domestic product, the broadest measure of economic activity, rose at a 3.2 percent annual rate in the October through December quarter, the Commerce Department said Fri. 1/28, below analysts' expectations but up from 2.6 percent in the third quarter. GDP growth would have been much higher if businesses had not cut back aggressively on their inventories. Final demand, which excludes that inventory swing and is a good indicator of the underlying pace of growth, rose at a whopping 7.1 percent, the strongest since 1984. GDP will likely grow between 3 percent and 4 percent this year as long-term unemployment continues to drag on the economy.
2. Obama's Clean-Energy Goals Have Industry Questioning Feasibility - President Obama has grand plans for a green nation -- 1 million electric vehicles on the road within four years and clean power sources providing 80% of the nation's energy by 2035. 1/27 Los Angeles Times
3. 3 Giants Launch Venture to Fund Energy Tech Startups - GE, Conoco-Phillips and NRG Energy have partnered to create a venture to invest $300 million in early-stage energy technology firms. The partnership, Energy Technology Ventures http://www.energytechnologyventures.com/ will help fund 30 companies over the next four years, focusing on investments in North America, Europe and Israel. Target technologies will include renewable power generation -- an area where GE is already busy -- as well as smart grid technology, energy efficiency, oil, natural gas, coal and nuclear energy, emission controls, water and biofuels. 1/28 Houston Chronicle
4. AEP's Energy Efficiency Advisory Council Endorses New Standards, Tax Policies for Home Appliances -Today, members of American Electric Power's external Energy Efficiency Advisory Council sent a letter to the DOE urging adoption of the proposed Energy Efficient and Smart Appliance Agreement of 2010, which would set new minimum energy efficiency standards for home appliances, extend and update tax credits for the development and manufacturing of smart appliances, and include smart grid readiness as a feature of future ENERGY STAR qualified appliances. The letter sent by AEP's Energy Efficiency Advisory Council to the DOE can be accessed at http://www.aepsustainability.com/docs/US-DOE-AEP-EEAC.pdf More information is available at http://www.aham.org/industry/ht/d/sp/i/49934/pid/49934
5. The Following Resources for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) -
• Federal Government Recovery Act website: http://www.recovery.gov/
• DOE Recovery Act website: http://www.energy.gov/recovery/index.htm
• DOE Recovery Act Clearinghouse (Toll-Free): (888) 363-RCVY or (888) 363-7289
• EERE Recovery Act website: http://www.eere.energy.gov/recovery/
• For more information on project and funding opportunities visit: http://www.netl.doe.gov/
6. DOE Report Estimates LED Savings in Niche Markets - The DOE has released analysis findings for markets where LEDs compete with or are poised to compete with traditional lighting sources (e.g., incandescent and fluorescent). The January 2011 report provides estimates of current energy savings, plus potential savings if these markets switched to LEDs overnight. Twelve markets were analyzed:
• Four general-illumination applications (PAR, BR, and R replacement lamps; MR16 replacement lamps; 2-foot by 2-foot troffer fixtures; and general service A-type replacement lamps)
• Four outdoor applications (roadway, parking, area and flood, and residential)
• Four applications for consumer electronic displays (televisions, laptops, monitors, and mobile handsets).
To download a PDF of the report, go to www.ssl.energy.gov/tech_reports.html
7. LED Replacements for Edison's Light Bulb Expand - Today, 131 years after Thomas Edison was granted a patent for the incandescent light bulb, the push for more efficient lighting expands with an LED replacement touted to have Edison-like quality. Cree, Inc. has demonstrated the brightest, most-efficient, LED-based A-lamp that can meet ENERGY STAR® performance requirements for a 60-watt standard LED replacement bulb. This level of performance is the result of Cree TrueWhite® Technology and Cree remote-phosphor technology. http://www.truewhitelight.com/ http://www.cree.com/press/press_detail.asp?i=1296133896251 1/27 USA TODAY
8. IALD and ILP Sign MOU in Support of Lighting Design - The International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), an international organization supporting a network of 900 lighting design professionals and the Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP), the United Kingdom and Ireland's largest and most influential professional lighting association, recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work cooperatively toward developing the architectural lighting design profession and elevating awareness of quality lighting. 1/28 EC&M
9. Lime Energy Joins GE Lighting's Effort to Promote Greater Energy Efficiency Among Businesses - Lime Energy has joined GE Lighting's Energy Services Program. The Program involves a consortium of energy services consulting firms who work closely with GE to help commercial and industrial firms formulate strategies to optimize the financial and environmental returns available from improvements in building energy efficiency. Through its affiliation with GE, Lime Energy will also help companies identify available rebates, financing and government incentives. http://www.geconsumerandindustrial.com/environmentalinfo/regulations_resources/esco/find_an_esco.htm
10. National Grid Selects SmartWatt Energy for Small Business Energy Reduction Program in Northern NY Region - SmartWatt Energy, Inc., announced today that they have been awarded the Implementation Contractor and Administrator contract for National Grid's Small Business Energy Efficiency Program in the Northern NY Region. SmartWatt Energy estimates that as many as 12,000 small businesses in Northern NY will qualify for this Program. Business customers with an average demand use of 100 kilowatts of energy or less per month will qualify for the Program, in which National Grid provides rebates of up to 70% of the cost of the installation of energy efficient equipment. National Grid will also allow on-bill financing for the remaining 30% of the installation, interest-free for up to 24 months. Convenience stores, restaurants, warehouses, offices, car dealerships and light industrial manufacturers will all be helped by this Program. 1/27 http://www.smartwattenergy.com/
11. Customers Will Save Nearly $275 Million in Energy Costs with Bulbs Purchased Through Dominion VA's CFL Discount Program - The cost savings estimate is based on calculations made with information from EPA. Purchased with discounts since 2007 through the end of 2010, Dominion's programs have resulted in sales of approximately 6 million CFLs. Anticipated sales of 2 million CFLs this year will produce additional energy and cost savings for customers over the estimated 10-year life of the bulbs. 1/26 PRNewswire http://www.dom.com/
12. Turlock, CA Considers Lights Loan - The Turlock City Council are scheduled to consider a proposal to borrow $766,165 from the California Energy Commission to retrofit 2,000 streetlights with induction lights that use less electricity and last longer. The loan will augment $643,100 in federal stimulus funds the city received for the project. 1/23 The Modesto Bee
Monthly Special Feature...
Check out Home Channel News Industry Dashboard 1/24/11. Housing starts were disappointing when they were released last week. But existing-home sales saw double-digit gains. That mixed message was also delivered by the Home Channel Stock Roundup.
Monday, January 24, 2011
News Updates for the Week of January 24th
1. EPA Makes Cleanup Tips for Broken CFL Bulbs 'Much More Realistic' - CFLs are known to pose some risks when they break, and now the Environmental Protection Agency has revised guidelines for their safe disposal. CFLs, sold for as little as a dollar each, account for about 20% of bulbs sold in the United States, up from less than 2% in 2000, says a September 2010 Department of Energy report. EPA says consumers should properly dispose of CFLs by checking for local recycling places on Earth911's website, www.earth911.com A survey finds 72% of U.S. households use at least one CFL, compared with 82% that use incandescents and 27% using LEDs. 1/17 USA Today
2. A Roadmap for America’s Energy Future H.R. 5899 - The GOP bill titled “A Roadmap for America’s Energy Future” uses untapped energy resources throughout our nation to bridge the gap between current energy consumption and our nation’s long-term goal of transitioning to renewable and advanced energy alternatives. The Energy Roadmap recognizes that many options are available to secure our long-term energy security. The bill leverages these alternatives to produce a diverse energy portfolio that would offer much greater stability in the long run, as well as more affordable prices. http://nunes.house.gov/_files/SummaryoftheEnergyRoadmap.pdf
3. 2011 Rebate Programs Have Started - Many electric utilities and government organizations across the nation have been busy updating their rebate guidelines for 2011. A majority have already released their new programs, with others to have them by the end of the month. While every program is different, some of the most common changes we have seen are higher rebate amounts, additional restrictions on which lighting systems may qualify for rebates, and the addition of LED lighting solutions into their programs More good news is that incentives for energy efficient commercial lighting now cover 78% of the US, which is a 30% increase from the same time last year. http://www.briteswitch.com/newsletter/Jan11-1.html
4. LEDs: Rebates Are Rapidly Growing - LED is the new buzzword when customers are looking to upgrade to efficient lighting. Their energy efficiency has improved over the past few years and as the cost of LED solutions fall, they are making their way into many mainstream applications. Energy Star established regulations for many LED solutions, prompting rebate programs to start offering incentives for these products. The chart below shows a rebate analysis for just a few of the LED product categories. http://www.briteswitch.com/newsletter/Jan11-2.html
5. NEMA Publishes Incandescent Bulb Phase-Out Brochure – NEMA has published a brochure that clarifies the upcoming phase-out of incandescent light bulbs. Beginning in 2012, and a year earlier in California, traditional 100-watt, 75-watt, 60-watt, and 40-watt bulbs will be phased out, with a completion date of 2014. Based on the average number of sockets per household, NEMA estimates that American households will save an average of $143 on electric bills when the transition is complete. http://www.nemasavesenergy.org/assets/_cxFki8alkGc9XKG6n78cA.pdf
6. One Billion Square Feet of LEED Certified Green Building Projects Worldwide - Late in 2011, the total footprint of commercial projects certified under the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED Green Building Rating System surpassed one billion square feet. Another six billion square feet of projects are registered and currently working toward LEED certification around the world. Since it was first introduced to the marketplace in 2000, over 36,000 commercial projects and 38,000 single-family homes have participated in LEED.
7. Existing-Home Sales Rise Sharply - Existing-home sales rose sharply in December, when sales increased for the fifth time in the past six months, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Completed transactions of single-family houses, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops rose 12.3% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.28 million in December. Despite the surge, the figure is 2.9% below the 5.44 million-pace in December 2009. 1/20 HCN
8. Housing Starts Finish Year on an Off Note - If housing starts are going to gain 20% in 2011 as recently predicted, they're going to have to pick up the pace. Data released Wednesday morning shows housing starts in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 529,000 -- that's down 4.3% from November and down 8.2% from the December 2009 rate. For the full year, the total number of starts finished at 598,200, slightly ahead of 2009's record low of 583,000. However, a bright spot appeared in the measure of building permits for December, which jumped 16.7% to 635,000. Single-family building permits were at a rate of 440,000, up 5.5%. 1/19 HCN
9. Renewables Trending Higher - Renewables are gaining a greater share of domestic energy production according to the latest government figure released by the U.S. Department of Energy. The race between renewables and nuclear power is tightening. More specifically, renewable energy sources (i.e., biomass/biofuels, geothermal, solar, water, and wind) accounted for 10.9 percent of domestic energy production and increased by 5.7 percent compared to the same period in 2009. Meanwhile, nuclear power accounted for 11.4 percent of domestic energy production but provided 0.5 percent less energy than a year earlier. Among the renewable energy sources, biomass and biofuels accounted for about 52 percent, hydropower for 31.5 percent, wind for 10.5 percent, geothermal for 4.6 percent, and solar for 1.4 percent. 1/19 EnergyBiz
10. Milwaukee to Revamp Energy Efficiency Program - Milwaukee is revamping a program aimed at encouraging homeowners to make their homes more energy efficient and will unveil it this spring. The city will instead apply stimulus funds to help create a revolving loan fund for the projects when it relaunches the ME2, or Milwaukee Energy Efficiency program to help bring down the interest rate or extend the loan terms for city homeowners who want to pursue energy efficiency upgrades. Details of the program will be unveiled soon, though more information is available at a new website, www.smartenergypays.com 1/20 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
11. Additional Rebates Offered for Energy-Efficient Home Improvements - The Maryland Energy Administration has announced $1 million in rebates for energy-efficient home improvements through the Maryland Home Performance program. Consumers should go to www.mdhomeperformance.org to find a contractor and determine what improvements they need. Then they can download an application from www.energy.maryland.gov to reserve their rebate. 1/20 The Baltimore Sun
12. Codale Launches Year-Long Energy Savings Campaign - Codale Electric Supply, Salt Lake City, Utah, has announced the schedule for its “2011: A Year of Energy Savings” program, a year-long series of trainings, sales promotions and events focused on energy-saving products and technologies. The program will cover several energy-efficient product categories, including LEDs, CFLs, skylights and daylight harvesting, as well as sustainable power management equipment such as switchgear, variable-frequency-drives (VFDs), transformers, capacitors, soft starts and power monitoring. Details can be found at www.codale.com/2011YES 1/18 Jim Lucy http://livewire.electricalmarketing.com/
13. FTC Halts Phony Green Agency - An organization that called itself “Tested Green” -- and claimed to certify green products for as much as $549.95 -- was put out of business by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). More than 100 customers paid various fees to have their products endorsed by Tested Green between February 2009 and April 2010, according to the FTC. Owner Jeremy Ryan Claeys claimed that the testing labs were independent, when in fact he owned the operations. Claeys advertised, marketed and sold environmental certifications using both mass e-mails to prospective consumers and the website www.testedgreen.com The company’s marketing claimed that Tested Green was the “nation’s leading certification program with over 45,000 certifications in the United States.” The FTC complaint alleges, however, that Tested Green never tested any of the companies it provided with environmental certifications, and would “certify” anyone willing to pay a fee of either $189.95 for a “Rapid” certification or $549.95 for a “Pro” certification. 1/19 HCN
14. UN: 1.6 Billion People Still Have No Access to Electricity - The United Nations called Monday for a clean energy revolution that would provide electricity to the world population, including the 1.6 billion people who currently have no access to it. Biomass fuels and coal are traditional energy commodities for some 3 billion people out of the world population of 6.8 billion. 1/17 McClatchy-Tribune Regional News
2. A Roadmap for America’s Energy Future H.R. 5899 - The GOP bill titled “A Roadmap for America’s Energy Future” uses untapped energy resources throughout our nation to bridge the gap between current energy consumption and our nation’s long-term goal of transitioning to renewable and advanced energy alternatives. The Energy Roadmap recognizes that many options are available to secure our long-term energy security. The bill leverages these alternatives to produce a diverse energy portfolio that would offer much greater stability in the long run, as well as more affordable prices. http://nunes.house.gov/_files/SummaryoftheEnergyRoadmap.pdf
3. 2011 Rebate Programs Have Started - Many electric utilities and government organizations across the nation have been busy updating their rebate guidelines for 2011. A majority have already released their new programs, with others to have them by the end of the month. While every program is different, some of the most common changes we have seen are higher rebate amounts, additional restrictions on which lighting systems may qualify for rebates, and the addition of LED lighting solutions into their programs More good news is that incentives for energy efficient commercial lighting now cover 78% of the US, which is a 30% increase from the same time last year. http://www.briteswitch.com/newsletter/Jan11-1.html
4. LEDs: Rebates Are Rapidly Growing - LED is the new buzzword when customers are looking to upgrade to efficient lighting. Their energy efficiency has improved over the past few years and as the cost of LED solutions fall, they are making their way into many mainstream applications. Energy Star established regulations for many LED solutions, prompting rebate programs to start offering incentives for these products. The chart below shows a rebate analysis for just a few of the LED product categories. http://www.briteswitch.com/newsletter/Jan11-2.html
5. NEMA Publishes Incandescent Bulb Phase-Out Brochure – NEMA has published a brochure that clarifies the upcoming phase-out of incandescent light bulbs. Beginning in 2012, and a year earlier in California, traditional 100-watt, 75-watt, 60-watt, and 40-watt bulbs will be phased out, with a completion date of 2014. Based on the average number of sockets per household, NEMA estimates that American households will save an average of $143 on electric bills when the transition is complete. http://www.nemasavesenergy.org/assets/_cxFki8alkGc9XKG6n78cA.pdf
6. One Billion Square Feet of LEED Certified Green Building Projects Worldwide - Late in 2011, the total footprint of commercial projects certified under the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED Green Building Rating System surpassed one billion square feet. Another six billion square feet of projects are registered and currently working toward LEED certification around the world. Since it was first introduced to the marketplace in 2000, over 36,000 commercial projects and 38,000 single-family homes have participated in LEED.
7. Existing-Home Sales Rise Sharply - Existing-home sales rose sharply in December, when sales increased for the fifth time in the past six months, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Completed transactions of single-family houses, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops rose 12.3% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.28 million in December. Despite the surge, the figure is 2.9% below the 5.44 million-pace in December 2009. 1/20 HCN
8. Housing Starts Finish Year on an Off Note - If housing starts are going to gain 20% in 2011 as recently predicted, they're going to have to pick up the pace. Data released Wednesday morning shows housing starts in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 529,000 -- that's down 4.3% from November and down 8.2% from the December 2009 rate. For the full year, the total number of starts finished at 598,200, slightly ahead of 2009's record low of 583,000. However, a bright spot appeared in the measure of building permits for December, which jumped 16.7% to 635,000. Single-family building permits were at a rate of 440,000, up 5.5%. 1/19 HCN
9. Renewables Trending Higher - Renewables are gaining a greater share of domestic energy production according to the latest government figure released by the U.S. Department of Energy. The race between renewables and nuclear power is tightening. More specifically, renewable energy sources (i.e., biomass/biofuels, geothermal, solar, water, and wind) accounted for 10.9 percent of domestic energy production and increased by 5.7 percent compared to the same period in 2009. Meanwhile, nuclear power accounted for 11.4 percent of domestic energy production but provided 0.5 percent less energy than a year earlier. Among the renewable energy sources, biomass and biofuels accounted for about 52 percent, hydropower for 31.5 percent, wind for 10.5 percent, geothermal for 4.6 percent, and solar for 1.4 percent. 1/19 EnergyBiz
10. Milwaukee to Revamp Energy Efficiency Program - Milwaukee is revamping a program aimed at encouraging homeowners to make their homes more energy efficient and will unveil it this spring. The city will instead apply stimulus funds to help create a revolving loan fund for the projects when it relaunches the ME2, or Milwaukee Energy Efficiency program to help bring down the interest rate or extend the loan terms for city homeowners who want to pursue energy efficiency upgrades. Details of the program will be unveiled soon, though more information is available at a new website, www.smartenergypays.com 1/20 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
11. Additional Rebates Offered for Energy-Efficient Home Improvements - The Maryland Energy Administration has announced $1 million in rebates for energy-efficient home improvements through the Maryland Home Performance program. Consumers should go to www.mdhomeperformance.org to find a contractor and determine what improvements they need. Then they can download an application from www.energy.maryland.gov to reserve their rebate. 1/20 The Baltimore Sun
12. Codale Launches Year-Long Energy Savings Campaign - Codale Electric Supply, Salt Lake City, Utah, has announced the schedule for its “2011: A Year of Energy Savings” program, a year-long series of trainings, sales promotions and events focused on energy-saving products and technologies. The program will cover several energy-efficient product categories, including LEDs, CFLs, skylights and daylight harvesting, as well as sustainable power management equipment such as switchgear, variable-frequency-drives (VFDs), transformers, capacitors, soft starts and power monitoring. Details can be found at www.codale.com/2011YES 1/18 Jim Lucy http://livewire.electricalmarketing.com/
13. FTC Halts Phony Green Agency - An organization that called itself “Tested Green” -- and claimed to certify green products for as much as $549.95 -- was put out of business by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). More than 100 customers paid various fees to have their products endorsed by Tested Green between February 2009 and April 2010, according to the FTC. Owner Jeremy Ryan Claeys claimed that the testing labs were independent, when in fact he owned the operations. Claeys advertised, marketed and sold environmental certifications using both mass e-mails to prospective consumers and the website www.testedgreen.com The company’s marketing claimed that Tested Green was the “nation’s leading certification program with over 45,000 certifications in the United States.” The FTC complaint alleges, however, that Tested Green never tested any of the companies it provided with environmental certifications, and would “certify” anyone willing to pay a fee of either $189.95 for a “Rapid” certification or $549.95 for a “Pro” certification. 1/19 HCN
14. UN: 1.6 Billion People Still Have No Access to Electricity - The United Nations called Monday for a clean energy revolution that would provide electricity to the world population, including the 1.6 billion people who currently have no access to it. Biomass fuels and coal are traditional energy commodities for some 3 billion people out of the world population of 6.8 billion. 1/17 McClatchy-Tribune Regional News
Monday, January 17, 2011
News Updates for the Week of Jan. 17
1. Energy Efficient Lighting for Commercial Markets - Lighting currently represents about 17.5% of all global electricity consumption. The U.S. alone accounts for approximately 20% of this amount at an annual cost of over $40 billion. As energy efficiency becomes increasingly important for controlling costs, improving energy independence, and reducing environmental impacts, governments and organizations have looked to lighting as the “low hanging fruit” of energy efficiency. This Pike Research report describes the key technology and market trends that are driving the use of LED and other high-efficiency lighting in the Commercial, Industrial and Outdoor Stationary sectors. The report analyzes the performance requirements for a number of lighting applications and assesses the suitability of various current and future lighting technologies for these applications. It also includes a 10-year forecast for lamp and luminaire sales in the U.S. across 10 different lighting technology categories in seven major building types and application sectors. In addition, the report includes SWOT analyses of 16 key industry players. http://www.pikeresearch.com/research/energy-efficient-lighting-for-commercial-markets
3. Retrofit Industry Boosts BPI Certifications - The number of contracting companies earning Building Performance Institute (BPI) Accredited Contractor status has doubled for the second year in a row, according to the Malta, N.Y.-based BPI.By the end of 2010, BPI had issued 20,236 certifications nationwide, 10,637 of which were earned in the past year. 1/12 HCN
4. Solar Company That Got $58M Leaving Massachusetts - A solar panel manufacturer that benefited from $58 million in state aid to open a factory at a former Massachusetts military base is closing the plant and laying off 800 workers. Evergreen Solar Inc. announced Tuesday it is shutting down the Devens plant by the end of the 2011 first quarter. Evergreen CEO Michael El-Hillow said dropping prices and competition from heavily subsidized solar manufacturers in China made the plant "no longer economically feasible." The company will continue to run facilities in China and Midland, Mich. Evergreen reported losses of $265 million in 2009, and $54 million through the first nine months of 2010. 1/12 AP
5. Pennsylvania Embraces HELP - The Keystone Home Energy Loan Program (HELP) helps qualified Pennsylvania homeowners take advantage of lower-rate, fixed-term loans for whole home energy efficiency projects. The new Conservation Audit and Performance Protocol (CAPP) Loans can be used for qualifying activities such as insulation and air sealing, as well as other Energy Star improvements involving heating and cooling equipment. Unsecured loans up to $15,000 are available under CAPP for three-, five- or 10-year terms at an interest rate of 2.99%, the lowest rate HELP has ever offered for unsecured loans. http://www.keystonehelp.com/index.php
6. Lodi Electric Utility Offering Energy Efficiency Financing to Entrepreneurs - Lodi Electric Utility is offering the financing project, and participating customers could earn up to $50,000 in an unsecured, interest-free loan. Qualifying businesses must be in good standing with the city of Lodi for the past 18 months and not have any late payments, said Rob Lechner, manager of customer service and programs for the city of Lodi. Businesses conducting HVAC replacements, process equipment change-outs, lighting retrofits and other energy-efficient upgrades could qualify for the program. The city of Lodi is the first municipality in California to offer such a program, Lechner said. 1/12 Lodi News-Sentinel
7. Low-Cost Energy Loans Available – Carrboro, NC businesses and nonprofits with fewer than 50 employees can now apply for low-cost loans for energy-efficient upgrades. The Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund provides loans of $1,500 or more at 3 percent interest over 10 years for new upgrades to heating and cooling systems, lighting, insulation, roofs, appliances, water heaters, windows and motors. www.townofcarrboro.org/ecd/EERLF.htm 1/10 The Chapel Hill News
8. 2011 BOC Technical Webinar Series: Lighting Solutions for IEQ and Energy Performance -
New Lighting Standards: February 9, 2011, 1:00-2 :00PM Eastern . SPEAKER: Andrew Pultorak, LC, Lighting Design Lab, Seattle, WA. New federal standards for lighting products will become effective in 2012. Common lighting products such as general purpose medium screw base incandescent bulbs, some incandescent reflector (IR) bulbs, and T-12 lamps are affected by these new standards. This webinar will cover useful information that facility professionals need to know about changes to the availability of commercial lighting products for their facility. Others listed at: http://www.theboc.info/m-live-webinars.html
9. Webcast: CALiPER Round 11 Test Results - On February 8, 2011, the U.S. Department of Energy will host a 90-minute live webcast presenting a summary of CALiPER Round 11 testing. In this webcast, Mia Paget from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory will report on Round 11 testing, which covered 35 LED and benchmark products. Round 11 products included roadway luminaires, linear replacement lamps, high-bay luminaires, and small replacement lamps (MR16, PAR lamps, A-lamps, and a candelabra lamp). Paget will address product performance results, manufacturer claims, and the subtleties that come into play when evaluating LED products. The webcast will begin promptly at 1:00 pm ET and will include a 60-minute presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session with attendees. To learn more, or to register for the webcast, visit http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/ssl/events_detail.html?event_id=4769
10. Advanced Monthly Retail Sales for December Show Gains - The U.S. Census Bureau reported this morning that U.S. retail and food services sales for December were $380.9 billion, up 0.6% from the previous month. Even better news came from the comparison to last year -- December sales were up 7.9% from December 2009. And Total sales for the October through December 2010 period were up 7.8% from the same period a year ago. 1/14 HCN
11. Construction Unemployment Hits 20.7% in December - Employment in construction declined by 16,000 during the month of December 2010 as the industry's unemployment rate hit 20.7%, according to analysis of federal employment figures released in early January by the Associated General Contractors of America. Even as the industry continues to suffer from weak private-sector demand the benefits of the temporary stimulus program appear to be winding down, association officials note. 1/14 EC&M
12. NEMA Publishes American National Standard for Roadway and Area Lighting Equipment - This standard, produced by the ANSI Committee 136 for Roadway and Area Lighting, was last revised in 2003. It offers step-by-step guidance for use in troubleshooting HID lighting fixtures by technicians in the field. It addresses the commonly encountered problems of lamps that are on continuously, cycle on and off, do not start, or burn dimly. www.nema.org/stds/c136-26.cfm 1/14 EC&M
13. What to Do if a CFL Bulb or Fluorescent Tube Light Bulb Breaks in Your Home: Detailed Recommendations - To minimize exposure to mercury vapor, EPA recommends that residents follow the cleanup and disposal steps on this website: http://www.epa.gov/cfl/cflcleanup.html Download and print:
- LED Lighting Penetration to Reach 46% of the Commercial Building Lamp Market by 2020
- Energy Efficient Technologies to Make Up Over 75% of the U.S. Lighting Market by 2020
3. Retrofit Industry Boosts BPI Certifications - The number of contracting companies earning Building Performance Institute (BPI) Accredited Contractor status has doubled for the second year in a row, according to the Malta, N.Y.-based BPI.By the end of 2010, BPI had issued 20,236 certifications nationwide, 10,637 of which were earned in the past year. 1/12 HCN
4. Solar Company That Got $58M Leaving Massachusetts - A solar panel manufacturer that benefited from $58 million in state aid to open a factory at a former Massachusetts military base is closing the plant and laying off 800 workers. Evergreen Solar Inc. announced Tuesday it is shutting down the Devens plant by the end of the 2011 first quarter. Evergreen CEO Michael El-Hillow said dropping prices and competition from heavily subsidized solar manufacturers in China made the plant "no longer economically feasible." The company will continue to run facilities in China and Midland, Mich. Evergreen reported losses of $265 million in 2009, and $54 million through the first nine months of 2010. 1/12 AP
5. Pennsylvania Embraces HELP - The Keystone Home Energy Loan Program (HELP) helps qualified Pennsylvania homeowners take advantage of lower-rate, fixed-term loans for whole home energy efficiency projects. The new Conservation Audit and Performance Protocol (CAPP) Loans can be used for qualifying activities such as insulation and air sealing, as well as other Energy Star improvements involving heating and cooling equipment. Unsecured loans up to $15,000 are available under CAPP for three-, five- or 10-year terms at an interest rate of 2.99%, the lowest rate HELP has ever offered for unsecured loans. http://www.keystonehelp.com/index.php
6. Lodi Electric Utility Offering Energy Efficiency Financing to Entrepreneurs - Lodi Electric Utility is offering the financing project, and participating customers could earn up to $50,000 in an unsecured, interest-free loan. Qualifying businesses must be in good standing with the city of Lodi for the past 18 months and not have any late payments, said Rob Lechner, manager of customer service and programs for the city of Lodi. Businesses conducting HVAC replacements, process equipment change-outs, lighting retrofits and other energy-efficient upgrades could qualify for the program. The city of Lodi is the first municipality in California to offer such a program, Lechner said. 1/12 Lodi News-Sentinel
7. Low-Cost Energy Loans Available – Carrboro, NC businesses and nonprofits with fewer than 50 employees can now apply for low-cost loans for energy-efficient upgrades. The Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund provides loans of $1,500 or more at 3 percent interest over 10 years for new upgrades to heating and cooling systems, lighting, insulation, roofs, appliances, water heaters, windows and motors. www.townofcarrboro.org/ecd/EERLF.htm 1/10 The Chapel Hill News
8. 2011 BOC Technical Webinar Series: Lighting Solutions for IEQ and Energy Performance -
New Lighting Standards: February 9, 2011, 1:00-2 :00PM Eastern . SPEAKER: Andrew Pultorak, LC, Lighting Design Lab, Seattle, WA. New federal standards for lighting products will become effective in 2012. Common lighting products such as general purpose medium screw base incandescent bulbs, some incandescent reflector (IR) bulbs, and T-12 lamps are affected by these new standards. This webinar will cover useful information that facility professionals need to know about changes to the availability of commercial lighting products for their facility. Others listed at: http://www.theboc.info/m-live-webinars.html
9. Webcast: CALiPER Round 11 Test Results - On February 8, 2011, the U.S. Department of Energy will host a 90-minute live webcast presenting a summary of CALiPER Round 11 testing. In this webcast, Mia Paget from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory will report on Round 11 testing, which covered 35 LED and benchmark products. Round 11 products included roadway luminaires, linear replacement lamps, high-bay luminaires, and small replacement lamps (MR16, PAR lamps, A-lamps, and a candelabra lamp). Paget will address product performance results, manufacturer claims, and the subtleties that come into play when evaluating LED products. The webcast will begin promptly at 1:00 pm ET and will include a 60-minute presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session with attendees. To learn more, or to register for the webcast, visit http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/ssl/events_detail.html?event_id=4769
10. Advanced Monthly Retail Sales for December Show Gains - The U.S. Census Bureau reported this morning that U.S. retail and food services sales for December were $380.9 billion, up 0.6% from the previous month. Even better news came from the comparison to last year -- December sales were up 7.9% from December 2009. And Total sales for the October through December 2010 period were up 7.8% from the same period a year ago. 1/14 HCN
11. Construction Unemployment Hits 20.7% in December - Employment in construction declined by 16,000 during the month of December 2010 as the industry's unemployment rate hit 20.7%, according to analysis of federal employment figures released in early January by the Associated General Contractors of America. Even as the industry continues to suffer from weak private-sector demand the benefits of the temporary stimulus program appear to be winding down, association officials note. 1/14 EC&M
12. NEMA Publishes American National Standard for Roadway and Area Lighting Equipment - This standard, produced by the ANSI Committee 136 for Roadway and Area Lighting, was last revised in 2003. It offers step-by-step guidance for use in troubleshooting HID lighting fixtures by technicians in the field. It addresses the commonly encountered problems of lamps that are on continuously, cycle on and off, do not start, or burn dimly. www.nema.org/stds/c136-26.cfm 1/14 EC&M
13. What to Do if a CFL Bulb or Fluorescent Tube Light Bulb Breaks in Your Home: Detailed Recommendations - To minimize exposure to mercury vapor, EPA recommends that residents follow the cleanup and disposal steps on this website: http://www.epa.gov/cfl/cflcleanup.html Download and print:
- a three-page PDF version of this overview and the detailed recommendations
- a two-page color brochure on how to safely clean up and recycle compact fluorescent bulbs
Monday, January 10, 2011
News Updates for the Week of January 10
1. Kiss Your 100-Watt Light Bulb Goodbye - Californians can start saying goodbye to traditional 100-watt incandescent light bulbs now that the state has become the first in the country to require a new standard for the screw-base bulbs. As of Saturday, what used to be a 100-watt light bulb manufactured and sold in California will have to use 72 watts or less. Similar new standards for traditional 75-watt, 60-watt and 40-watt incandescent bulbs will go into effect in California over the next few years, with wattages reduced to 53, 43 and 29 respectively. The new rule does not ban incandescent light bulbs; it just requires those bulbs to be 25 to 30 percent more efficient. And it only affects incandescent light bulbs manufactured in 2011 or later, not those already in use or on store shelves. 1/1/11 http://www.mercurynews.com/science/ci_16989501?nclick_check=1
2. Times Square Ball Ignited LED Hopes - As the Times Square Ball shines this New Year’s Eve, billions of viewers watching on TVs, computer screens and cell phones will see a dazzling combination of light-emitting diodes used to illuminate arguably the most famous globe in the world. Philips Lighting North America CEO Ed Crawford and MarketWatch's Steve Gelsi discuss the famous ball that drops in New York's Times Square on New Year's Eve. The ball features more than 32,000 of the company's LED bulbs. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/times-square-ball-lights-led-hopes-for-industry-2010-12-31?siteid=yhoof
3. The Other `Greenest' State - While California gets most of the attention for its greenhouse gas reduction targets, Massachusetts just set its own greenhouse gas (GHG) target. The 25-percent reduction over the next decade was recently released in compliance with its global warming law.
California, through its own global warming law, has set its sights on a 30 percent reduction in GHG by 2020. http://www.renewablesbiz.com/article/11/01/other-greenest-state
4. Pathway Lending Announces Re-Opening of Application Period for Energy Efficiency Loan Program - Pathway Lending announced today it is once again accepting applications from Tennessee businesses for its Energy Efficiency Loan Program. The $50 million program was launched in August 2010 to help Tennessee companies finance investments in energy efficient technology, energy retrofits and renewable energy systems in order to reduce energy costs, operating expenses, greenhouse gases and spur growth. The second round starts January 4, 2011 and will remain open until all funds from the Energy Efficiency Loan Program are committed to qualified applicants on a first come, first serve basis. 1/4 MarketWire
5. NLBMDA Offers Facts on Energy Incentives - The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association issued a fact sheet on the impact of recent tax relief law on incentives for energy-efficient home products.The Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act" signed into law on Dec. 17 extended credits for certain residential products for one year at reduced levels from the 2009-2010 credit. The credit covers Energy Star windows, exterior doors and skylights, and certain insulation, HVAC, metal and asphalt roofing products, biomass stoves and water heaters. EnergyStar.gov will have a complete list of qualifying products posted in early 2011. 1/6 HCN
6. Energy Audit Program Offered for Small Businesses in W.Va. - A grant sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture under the Rural Energy for America Program will aim to help West Virginia rural businesses become more energy efficient by providing those who qualify with a free energy audit. Titled "Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance," the program will allow for-profit small rural businesses with fewer than 500 employees in designated areas to apply for free energy audits performed by Industries of the Future -- West Virginia. To apply for an energy audit, visit http://iofwv.nrcce.wvu.edu/usda/.
7. Cree Ups the Performance of XLamp® MX-6 LEDs—Includes ENERGY STAR® LM-80 Data -Cree, Inc. has further simplified indoor LED fixture design with its newly optimized XLamp® MX-6 LEDs, which feature higher flux options, new, longer lifetime estimates and higher CRI options. Cree has also completed LM-80 testing on MX-6 LEDs, which can enable quicker time to market for manufacturers designing ENERGY STAR®-rated fixtures. http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Cree-Ups-the-Performance-of-bw-3561838809.html?x=0&.v=1
8. Transformations in Lighting - 2011 DOE Solid-State Lighting R&D Workshop, San Diego, CA
February 1-3, 2011 - The 2011 DOE SSL R&D workshop will be held at the Marriott Mission Valley in San Diego, and a block of hotel rooms has been held at a special rate for DOE workshop attendees. DOE SSL website to register: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/ssl/sandiego2011.html
9. DOE Announces Plans to Modify L Prize PAR 38 Competition Requirements - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced plans to modify the competition requirements for the L Prize PAR 38 category. Effective January 5, 2011, DOE has temporarily closed the PAR 38 competition, and entries will not be accepted until the competition reopens in May 2011. The 60-watt replacement lamp category remains open during this time. The proposed modifications to the PAR 38 competition requirements will integrate lessons learned to date from the 60-watt replacement competition. The legislated technical requirements for the PAR 38 competition will remain unchanged. DOE plans to announce and publish the revised PAR 38 requirements at Lightfair International in May 2011. mailto:doe.ssl.updates@ee.doe.gov
10. PNNL Project Pushes Energy Efficiency - Pacific Northwest National Laboratory plans to help commercial buildings from California to Rhode Island dramatically improve their energy efficiency using federal economic stimulus money. It is starting work on a three-year project to demonstrate and encourage energy efficiency in commercial buildings. The DOE lab in Richland, WA is part of the Commercial Buildings Partnership, which received $21 million in federal economic stimulus money for the program nationwide. Commercial buildings account for 18 percent of U.S. energy consumption. But under the partnership, commercial building owners and operators will receive technical expertise to help them significantly reduce energy consumption by making changes that give them reasonable returns on their investments. They must contribute at least 20 percent of the cost. 1/6 Tri-City Herald
11. Acuity Brands Offering Customers Access to Product Info on iPad and Facebook - Acuity Brands, Atlanta, now has the Lithonia Lighting Stock Guide for the iPad and Facebook. This full-color catalog features a broad offering of in-stock, ready-to-ship luminaires and intelligent controls solutions from Lithonia Lighting and Sensor Switch®. With these tools, access to product images, IES photometry and technical specifications are always within reach. The iPad catalog is accessible from any mobile device by accessing http://thestockguide.lithonia.com/ http://enews.penton.com/enews/electricalwholesaling/green_biz/2011_01_07_green_opportunities/display
2. Times Square Ball Ignited LED Hopes - As the Times Square Ball shines this New Year’s Eve, billions of viewers watching on TVs, computer screens and cell phones will see a dazzling combination of light-emitting diodes used to illuminate arguably the most famous globe in the world. Philips Lighting North America CEO Ed Crawford and MarketWatch's Steve Gelsi discuss the famous ball that drops in New York's Times Square on New Year's Eve. The ball features more than 32,000 of the company's LED bulbs. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/times-square-ball-lights-led-hopes-for-industry-2010-12-31?siteid=yhoof
3. The Other `Greenest' State - While California gets most of the attention for its greenhouse gas reduction targets, Massachusetts just set its own greenhouse gas (GHG) target. The 25-percent reduction over the next decade was recently released in compliance with its global warming law.
California, through its own global warming law, has set its sights on a 30 percent reduction in GHG by 2020. http://www.renewablesbiz.com/article/11/01/other-greenest-state
4. Pathway Lending Announces Re-Opening of Application Period for Energy Efficiency Loan Program - Pathway Lending announced today it is once again accepting applications from Tennessee businesses for its Energy Efficiency Loan Program. The $50 million program was launched in August 2010 to help Tennessee companies finance investments in energy efficient technology, energy retrofits and renewable energy systems in order to reduce energy costs, operating expenses, greenhouse gases and spur growth. The second round starts January 4, 2011 and will remain open until all funds from the Energy Efficiency Loan Program are committed to qualified applicants on a first come, first serve basis. 1/4 MarketWire
5. NLBMDA Offers Facts on Energy Incentives - The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association issued a fact sheet on the impact of recent tax relief law on incentives for energy-efficient home products.The Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act" signed into law on Dec. 17 extended credits for certain residential products for one year at reduced levels from the 2009-2010 credit. The credit covers Energy Star windows, exterior doors and skylights, and certain insulation, HVAC, metal and asphalt roofing products, biomass stoves and water heaters. EnergyStar.gov will have a complete list of qualifying products posted in early 2011. 1/6 HCN
6. Energy Audit Program Offered for Small Businesses in W.Va. - A grant sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture under the Rural Energy for America Program will aim to help West Virginia rural businesses become more energy efficient by providing those who qualify with a free energy audit. Titled "Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance," the program will allow for-profit small rural businesses with fewer than 500 employees in designated areas to apply for free energy audits performed by Industries of the Future -- West Virginia. To apply for an energy audit, visit http://iofwv.nrcce.wvu.edu/usda/.
7. Cree Ups the Performance of XLamp® MX-6 LEDs—Includes ENERGY STAR® LM-80 Data -Cree, Inc. has further simplified indoor LED fixture design with its newly optimized XLamp® MX-6 LEDs, which feature higher flux options, new, longer lifetime estimates and higher CRI options. Cree has also completed LM-80 testing on MX-6 LEDs, which can enable quicker time to market for manufacturers designing ENERGY STAR®-rated fixtures. http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Cree-Ups-the-Performance-of-bw-3561838809.html?x=0&.v=1
8. Transformations in Lighting - 2011 DOE Solid-State Lighting R&D Workshop, San Diego, CA
February 1-3, 2011 - The 2011 DOE SSL R&D workshop will be held at the Marriott Mission Valley in San Diego, and a block of hotel rooms has been held at a special rate for DOE workshop attendees. DOE SSL website to register: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/ssl/sandiego2011.html
9. DOE Announces Plans to Modify L Prize PAR 38 Competition Requirements - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced plans to modify the competition requirements for the L Prize PAR 38 category. Effective January 5, 2011, DOE has temporarily closed the PAR 38 competition, and entries will not be accepted until the competition reopens in May 2011. The 60-watt replacement lamp category remains open during this time. The proposed modifications to the PAR 38 competition requirements will integrate lessons learned to date from the 60-watt replacement competition. The legislated technical requirements for the PAR 38 competition will remain unchanged. DOE plans to announce and publish the revised PAR 38 requirements at Lightfair International in May 2011. mailto:doe.ssl.updates@ee.doe.gov
10. PNNL Project Pushes Energy Efficiency - Pacific Northwest National Laboratory plans to help commercial buildings from California to Rhode Island dramatically improve their energy efficiency using federal economic stimulus money. It is starting work on a three-year project to demonstrate and encourage energy efficiency in commercial buildings. The DOE lab in Richland, WA is part of the Commercial Buildings Partnership, which received $21 million in federal economic stimulus money for the program nationwide. Commercial buildings account for 18 percent of U.S. energy consumption. But under the partnership, commercial building owners and operators will receive technical expertise to help them significantly reduce energy consumption by making changes that give them reasonable returns on their investments. They must contribute at least 20 percent of the cost. 1/6 Tri-City Herald
11. Acuity Brands Offering Customers Access to Product Info on iPad and Facebook - Acuity Brands, Atlanta, now has the Lithonia Lighting Stock Guide for the iPad and Facebook. This full-color catalog features a broad offering of in-stock, ready-to-ship luminaires and intelligent controls solutions from Lithonia Lighting and Sensor Switch®. With these tools, access to product images, IES photometry and technical specifications are always within reach. The iPad catalog is accessible from any mobile device by accessing http://thestockguide.lithonia.com/ http://enews.penton.com/enews/electricalwholesaling/green_biz/2011_01_07_green_opportunities/display
Monday, January 3, 2011
Something To Think About...
In a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery on Nov 11, 1985, President Ronald W. Reagan said the following: "It is, in a way, an odd thing to honor those who died in defense of our country in wars far away. The imagination plays a trick. We see these soldiers in our mind as old and wise. We see them as something like the founding fathers, grave and grey-haired. But most of them were boys when they died. They gave up two lives: the one they were living and the one they would have lived. When they died, they gave up their chance to be husbands and fathers and grandfathers. They gave up their chance to be revered old men. They gave up everything for their country, for us. All we can do is remember. It's not so hard to summon memory, but it's hard to recapture meaning. And the living have a responsibility to remember the conditions that led to the wars in which our heroes died. Perhaps we can start by remembering this: that all of those who died for us and our country were, in one way or another, victims of a peace process that failed; victims of a decision to forget certain things; to forget, for instance, that the surest way to keep a peace going is to stay strong. Weakness, after all, is a temptation—it tempts the pugnacious to assert themselves—but strength is a declaration that cannot be misunderstood. Strength is a condition that declares actions have consequences. Strength is a prudent warning to the belligerent that aggression need not go unanswered."
News Updates for the Week of January 3
1. Lowe's Offers LED Bulb with Energy Star Rating - Mooresville, N.C.-based Lowe’s says it is the first national retailer to offer consumers an Energy Start-rated LED A-Line bulb. The GE Energy Smart 9-watt LED bulb became available through Lowes.com Dec. 22. The $34.98 bulb offers a unique omni-directional light output meant to replace a 40-watt incandescent bulb. 12/28 HCN
2. New Home Sales Increase 5.5% in November - Sales of new single-family houses in November 2010 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 290,000, according to estimates released jointly by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development -- a 5.5% increase over October. However, the figure is 21.2% below the same month last year. 12/28 HCN
3. Tax Bill Keeps Energy Credits in 2011 - Homeowners looking to make upgrades on Uncle Sam's penny have another year to do so, thanks to an extension of the home energy-efficiency improvement tax credits. The extension, which was included in legislation that renewed Bush-era tax cuts, allows individuals to receive tax credits for installing qualifying energy-efficient windows, doors, water heaters, roofs, insulation, heating and air-conditioning units and biomass stoves at principal residences. However, those who aim to take advantage of larger savings must act quickly, as the extension calls for a significant reduction in tax-credit amounts from this year. For more information on the energy-efficiency tax credits, visit http://www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm
4. The Role of Lighting in Green Building Certification by Darlene Bremer - The interest in and, in some cases, the mandated requirement of implementing sustainable building practices is becoming a worldwide phenomenon. One driver of the demand for increased sustainability comes from estimates that buildings, by themselves, consume more than 40 percent of the world’s energy and contain unrecycled materials, while producing more than 40 percent of all global waste and greenhouse gases. What concerns electrical contractors within the framework of green building certification and/or green building standards and codes, however, is energy efficiency, which inevitably involves lighting in terms of both performance and quality. http://www.ecmag.com/?fa=article&articleID=12159
5. 2010 IES Progress Report Available Online - Posted on December 21, 2010 by Craig DiLouie. The Illuminating Engineering Society of North America has published the results from the 2010 IES Progress Report, announced at the 2010 IES Annual Conference in Toronto, Ontario, November 7 – 9. The Progress Report is available online and will also appear in the January 2011 issue of LD+A. http://www.ies.org/PDF/LDA/2010-Progress-Report.pdf
6. Billions in Savings Projected - Ohio's energy-efficiency rules are projected to save Ohioans $368 million from 2009 to 2011, according to a new study. The analysis by the Institute for Energy Efficiency at the University of California-Santa Barbara indicates that those savings will grow to $19 billion for Ohio utility customers by 2025.Ohio utilities are expected to spend $340 million in the next two years in additional energy-efficiency programs. That will include rebates for energy-efficient appliances, weatherization programs, educational campaigns and energy-efficient lighting. 12/28 The Akron Beacon Journal
7. ABI Reaches Highest Score Since 2007 - After stepping back in October reversing into the negative territory, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) rose more than three points in November to reach its highest mark since December 2007. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine- to12-month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA), Washington, D.C., reported the November ABI score was 52.0, up from a reading of 48.7 the previous month. This score reflects an increase in demand for design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). Regional averages: Northeast (51.1), Midwest (50.9), South (50.5), West (48.7). 12/28 EC&M
8. Cooper Makes U.K. Acquisitions - Cooper Industries Plc announced the acquisitions of Mount Engineering Plc, a producer of adaptors and reducers for hazardous environments, and Apex Lighting Controls Ltd., a manufacturer of Energy Management lighting controls. The acquisition of Apex Lighting Controls reaffirms Cooper’s commitment to expand the range of energy-efficient lighting products. http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Cooper-Makes-UK-zacks-3338912894.html?x=0&.v=1
9. Lighting: LEDs Change the Game By Chad Watters - http://www.facilitiesnet.com/
Part 1: LEDs: Popular for Exterior Applications
Part 2: LEDs Improve Lighting Performance, Reliability
Part 3: LEDs: Cost Inhibits Widespread Specification
Part 4: LEDs: Maintenance Considerations, Lamp Replacement
2. New Home Sales Increase 5.5% in November - Sales of new single-family houses in November 2010 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 290,000, according to estimates released jointly by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development -- a 5.5% increase over October. However, the figure is 21.2% below the same month last year. 12/28 HCN
3. Tax Bill Keeps Energy Credits in 2011 - Homeowners looking to make upgrades on Uncle Sam's penny have another year to do so, thanks to an extension of the home energy-efficiency improvement tax credits. The extension, which was included in legislation that renewed Bush-era tax cuts, allows individuals to receive tax credits for installing qualifying energy-efficient windows, doors, water heaters, roofs, insulation, heating and air-conditioning units and biomass stoves at principal residences. However, those who aim to take advantage of larger savings must act quickly, as the extension calls for a significant reduction in tax-credit amounts from this year. For more information on the energy-efficiency tax credits, visit http://www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm
4. The Role of Lighting in Green Building Certification by Darlene Bremer - The interest in and, in some cases, the mandated requirement of implementing sustainable building practices is becoming a worldwide phenomenon. One driver of the demand for increased sustainability comes from estimates that buildings, by themselves, consume more than 40 percent of the world’s energy and contain unrecycled materials, while producing more than 40 percent of all global waste and greenhouse gases. What concerns electrical contractors within the framework of green building certification and/or green building standards and codes, however, is energy efficiency, which inevitably involves lighting in terms of both performance and quality. http://www.ecmag.com/?fa=article&articleID=12159
5. 2010 IES Progress Report Available Online - Posted on December 21, 2010 by Craig DiLouie. The Illuminating Engineering Society of North America has published the results from the 2010 IES Progress Report, announced at the 2010 IES Annual Conference in Toronto, Ontario, November 7 – 9. The Progress Report is available online and will also appear in the January 2011 issue of LD+A. http://www.ies.org/PDF/LDA/2010-Progress-Report.pdf
6. Billions in Savings Projected - Ohio's energy-efficiency rules are projected to save Ohioans $368 million from 2009 to 2011, according to a new study. The analysis by the Institute for Energy Efficiency at the University of California-Santa Barbara indicates that those savings will grow to $19 billion for Ohio utility customers by 2025.Ohio utilities are expected to spend $340 million in the next two years in additional energy-efficiency programs. That will include rebates for energy-efficient appliances, weatherization programs, educational campaigns and energy-efficient lighting. 12/28 The Akron Beacon Journal
7. ABI Reaches Highest Score Since 2007 - After stepping back in October reversing into the negative territory, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) rose more than three points in November to reach its highest mark since December 2007. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine- to12-month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA), Washington, D.C., reported the November ABI score was 52.0, up from a reading of 48.7 the previous month. This score reflects an increase in demand for design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). Regional averages: Northeast (51.1), Midwest (50.9), South (50.5), West (48.7). 12/28 EC&M
8. Cooper Makes U.K. Acquisitions - Cooper Industries Plc announced the acquisitions of Mount Engineering Plc, a producer of adaptors and reducers for hazardous environments, and Apex Lighting Controls Ltd., a manufacturer of Energy Management lighting controls. The acquisition of Apex Lighting Controls reaffirms Cooper’s commitment to expand the range of energy-efficient lighting products. http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Cooper-Makes-UK-zacks-3338912894.html?x=0&.v=1
9. Lighting: LEDs Change the Game By Chad Watters - http://www.facilitiesnet.com/
Part 1: LEDs: Popular for Exterior Applications
Part 2: LEDs Improve Lighting Performance, Reliability
Part 3: LEDs: Cost Inhibits Widespread Specification
Part 4: LEDs: Maintenance Considerations, Lamp Replacement
Monthly Special Feature
Proper Maintenance, Removal, and Disposal of PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/tsd/pcbs/pubs/ballasts.htm#ballast08
A Guide for School Administrators and Maintenance Personnel
• Introduction
• Why Should I Be Concerned about PCBs in My School?
• What Are the Health Effects of PCBs?
• Do My Fluorescent Light Ballasts Contain PCBs?
• Should the Light Ballasts in My School Be Removed
• What Should I Do if My Fluorescent Light Ballasts Contain PCBs?
• Is It Really Necessary to Retrofit the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?
• What Are the Risks and Potential Costs of Not Replacing the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?
• Are Students and Teachers in Danger if There are Leaking PCB-Containing Light Ballasts in Their School?
• What Are the Special Procedures for Cleanup and Decontamination after a Ballast Leak or Fire?
• How Do I Retrofit the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?
• What Type of Waste Will Be Associated with a Retrofit and How Do I Handle It?
• What Are the Cost Savings Associated with a Retrofit?
• What if a Retrofit Is Not Feasible in My Current Budget?
EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) disposal requirements for fluorescent light ballasts:
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/tsd/pcbs/pubs/ballastchart.pdf
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/tsd/pcbs/pubs/ballasts.htm#ballast08
A Guide for School Administrators and Maintenance Personnel
• Introduction
• Why Should I Be Concerned about PCBs in My School?
• What Are the Health Effects of PCBs?
• Do My Fluorescent Light Ballasts Contain PCBs?
• Should the Light Ballasts in My School Be Removed
• What Should I Do if My Fluorescent Light Ballasts Contain PCBs?
• Is It Really Necessary to Retrofit the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?
• What Are the Risks and Potential Costs of Not Replacing the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?
• Are Students and Teachers in Danger if There are Leaking PCB-Containing Light Ballasts in Their School?
• What Are the Special Procedures for Cleanup and Decontamination after a Ballast Leak or Fire?
• How Do I Retrofit the PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts in My School?
• What Type of Waste Will Be Associated with a Retrofit and How Do I Handle It?
• What Are the Cost Savings Associated with a Retrofit?
• What if a Retrofit Is Not Feasible in My Current Budget?
EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) disposal requirements for fluorescent light ballasts:
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/hazard/tsd/pcbs/pubs/ballastchart.pdf
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