There is no question that during these lean economic times, we all must do our part to conserve energy. With the recent crisis facing Guam's power grid, now more than any time in the recent past, must we as a community do what we can to protect the very precious resource of energy. We do have a new solar farm on-line in Dandan. We do have a plan for integrating wind energy in nearby Windward Hills. We also have seen the proliferation of small businesses selling residential rooftop solar photovoltaics to curb the rising prices of energy. For businesses, this issue has many talking and looking for solutions. This blogger believes that this discussion begins and ends with energy efficient lighting.
Investing in great lighting can drive profits in retail spaces by highlighting key products and driving foot traffic to specific areas within stores to maximize sales. As the buildup on Guam gets underway and with tourism is on the rise, regular and new customers alike need to know what you have and will be directed to great product presentation via great lighting.
Switching to LED lighting alone will save up to 75 percent on energy costs. First cost issues are becoming less of a concern considering the cost of power in Micronesia. Installing lighting controls can save an additional 35 to 50 percent. The Consumer Electronics Association is reporting that lighting controls are becoming the favorite technology among architects and homeowners- tied as the No. 1 technology in terms of being specified by homeowners and architects to builders. In all, 53 percent of the time a lighting control system is installed because the homeowner or architect requested it. The "re-do" of the Guam Tropical Energy Code does address this and we all would do ourselves a collective favor by considering a controls strategy that best fits our respective homes, workplaces and business properties.
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that switching entirely to Light-emitting diode (LED) lighting over the next two decades could save $250 billion in energy costs in America and avoid 1,800 million metric tons of carbon emissions. There are a handful of Guam businesses that have since made the switch to LED lighting and are enjoying the cost benefits. But there are still many who use older and less efficient lighting systems and will continue to do so until their stocks are depleted. At that time, decisions will be made and we would encourage that the decision be made in favor of energy efficient lighting.
Economics will drive the next steps on island for all, businesses and residents alike, to make a conscious switch to the use of modern lighting technology. Check out our website for energy efficient lighting solutions at www.get-guam.com or give GET, LLC a call at 671-797-0789. We are a provider of Independence LED Lighting and Deco Lighting Inc. products-Made in America!!!