The Public Utility Commission this week asked each Pennsylvania utility customer to make an "Earth Day Pledge" to conserve energy and water this Earth Day, April 22.

As part of this initiative, the Commission will distribute conservation tips for consumers, including guidance on how to conserve water and some simple spring cleaning chores that may make your home more energy efficient.

"As we commemorate Earth Day, let us make a conscious effort to conserve energy and help the environment by pledging to make a change," said PUC Chairman Wendell F. Holland. "It could be as simple as pledging to replace a light bulb in your house with a new energy efficient fluorescent bulb, adjust your thermostat or weatherize your house. Save energy. Save the environment,"

“By switching to CFLs, the average consumer can save about $30 or more in electricity costs over the lifetime of the bulb,” said PUC Commissioner Tyrone J. Christy. “This is one simple change that could help save consumers money and create a more energy efficient home.”

These swirly bulbs use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer. CFLs also produce less heat than an incandescent light bulb, cutting additional energy costs associated with home cooling.

The best places to use CFLs in the home are in the most used light fixtures, like those in the living room, bedroom, kitchen and dining room. CFLs can even be used for outside lighting, especially lights that remain on through the night.

This Earth Day, the Commission offers its own pledge to continue its ongoing efforts to educate consumers on ways to be more energy efficient and conserve, while also preparing them for potential increases in rates. As part of its Prepare Now initiative, the Commission reached out to consumers on ways to save energy and money during the winter months.

Earlier this year, during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Utility Service, sponsored by the Commission, ratepayers were encouraged to conserve energy at home and also in their community-at-large.

4/18/2008