The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy Secretary this week kicked off the annual "Energy Star Change a Light, Change the World Campaign" and urged Americans to change a light in their home to a more energy-efficient one as an important step to save energy and protect our environment.

If every U.S. household replaces just one incandescent light bulb at home with one that earned the Energy Star label, the country will save $600 million in energy bills, save enough energy to light 7 million homes, and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 1 million cars.

Lighting accounts for nearly 20 percent of electricity costs, with the average home containing more than 30 light fixtures. Energy Star qualified bulbs and fixtures help reduce household energy costs because they use one-third the energy of traditional lighting, and last up to 10 times longer.

Consumers can save up to $25 in utility costs over the lifetime of one bulb. Replacing the most frequently used lights at home will yield the most savings.

Visit the Energy Star Change a Light, Change the World Campaign webpage for more information and take the Change a Light Pledge.

10/7/2005