With a U.S. mandate for more energy efficient lighting taking effect in 2012 and more businesses looking for ways to cut electricity costs, LED Lighting represent a burgeoning market for the lighting industry -- and the rivalry is heating up among companies that want to seize the lion's share of the sizable spoils.
A new study from Pike Research forecasts that LEDs will account for almost half of a $4.4 billion market for lamps in the commercial, industrial and outdoor stationary sectors by 2020.
Almost 18 percent of global electricity use goes toward lighting, and lighting in the U.S. consumes a fifth of the amount at an annual cost of more than $40 billion. With their ability to produce the same amount of light as traditional bulbs while consuming less energy and lasting far longer, LEDs represent a strong opportunity to cut expenses and reduce electricity use.
Typically, the LED replacements for traditional bulbs are described by their manufacturers as delivering 80 percent energy savings and lasting 25,000 hours, which can be 12 to 25 times longer than the bulbs they are replacing, depending on wattage and the company doing the talking.
Widely used for traffic signals and exit signs, LEDs have yet to break through the cost barrier, which has been the biggest obstacle to market penetration. But that's expected to change.
Prospective price tags have been reported in the range of $60 for LED retrofits for incandescent 60-watt bulbs and $40 to $50 for LEDs that replace 40-watt bulbs. However, some companies are saying they can beat those prices, at least one already is, and all the firms are jockeying to be the best, brightest and "first" in a number of descriptive categories.
Read more: http://www.greenbiz.com/news/2010/05/20/leds-poised-outshine-all-others-44b-lighting-market?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+GreenerBuildings+%28GreenBiz.com+%7C+Buildings%29#ixzz0oahaPfNv
Redbird LED Offers New LED Technology at Lower Pricing
The energy savings numbers of using LED lights has been obvious for a number of years but the initial costs have hindered the growth of the LED Retrofit market. That has changed with a new line up of LED Tube Lights from Atlanta based Redbird LED. They have carefully designed and manufactured a superior quality lights that is priced lower than most competitors. For more information please visit their LED Tube website.
Friday, May 21, 2010
CVS Saves On Energy Costs with Lighting Retrofits
As reported on Chain Store Age website
CVS Caremark details its efforts to better manage its energy consumption and reduce its carbon emissions in the company’s just-released 2009 Corporate Social Responsibility report.
The drugstore chain emitted approximately 1.73 million metric tonnes of CO2e emissions in 2009, of which 90% is generated by electricity consumption. To reduce consumption at its stores, CVS focused on several initiatives in 2009, including installing more efficient lighting and new roofs designed to reflect heat, and integrating its first energy-management systems.
In other moves, the company evaluated renewable energy sources, built new facilities to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards and/or environmental considerations and reduced fuel consumption in its distribution networks.
Three lighting projects in the states of Florida, Michigan and Pennsylvania yielded the highest savings of 2,640 MWh, 3,480 MWh and 1,850 MWh, respectively. In addition, CVS rolled out its computer-controlled energy-management system in 50 stores in Florida, and will expand the system to 250 locations in 2010.
For complete article -http://www.chainstoreage.com/story.aspx?id=140575&menuid=591
Sponsor: Redbird LED is an Atlanta based LED Lighting Designer and Manufacturer of LED lights for commercial lighting retrofits. They have recently released a new line up of LED lighting retrofit products that are new generation lighting that combines high quality and illumination and value pricing. LED lighting is now used in thousands of commercial buildings and is clearly the lighting choice of the future. For more information please visit their Commercial LED Retrofitwww.ledretrofits.org website.
CVS Caremark details its efforts to better manage its energy consumption and reduce its carbon emissions in the company’s just-released 2009 Corporate Social Responsibility report.
The drugstore chain emitted approximately 1.73 million metric tonnes of CO2e emissions in 2009, of which 90% is generated by electricity consumption. To reduce consumption at its stores, CVS focused on several initiatives in 2009, including installing more efficient lighting and new roofs designed to reflect heat, and integrating its first energy-management systems.
In other moves, the company evaluated renewable energy sources, built new facilities to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards and/or environmental considerations and reduced fuel consumption in its distribution networks.
Three lighting projects in the states of Florida, Michigan and Pennsylvania yielded the highest savings of 2,640 MWh, 3,480 MWh and 1,850 MWh, respectively. In addition, CVS rolled out its computer-controlled energy-management system in 50 stores in Florida, and will expand the system to 250 locations in 2010.
For complete article -http://www.chainstoreage.com/story.aspx?id=140575&menuid=591
Sponsor: Redbird LED is an Atlanta based LED Lighting Designer and Manufacturer of LED lights for commercial lighting retrofits. They have recently released a new line up of LED lighting retrofit products that are new generation lighting that combines high quality and illumination and value pricing. LED lighting is now used in thousands of commercial buildings and is clearly the lighting choice of the future. For more information please visit their Commercial LED Retrofitwww.ledretrofits.org website.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Kroger Store First In Nation to Earn EPA Design Award
A Kroger location in Indianapolis recently became the first grocery store in the nation to earn the Energy Star certification from the Environmental Protection Agency for building design, according to The Indianapolis Star.
The Nora Kroger store has installed skylights, as well as a temperature control systems that automatically adjust heating and cooling levels based on need.
In addition, the store reuses heat from refrigeration cases and equipment to heat its water, as well as the building.
Eight other Kroger stores in Indianapolis have applied for the certification, which designates buildings that are environmentally designed to perform in the top 25% of all buildings in the United States, the report said.
Nationwide, Kroger has replaced all of the fluorescent lights in its glass-door freezer cases with light-emitting diode light bars, or LED lamps, which saves about 100,000 kilowatts of energy and $10,000 per store annually, according to the report.
http://www.chainstoreage.com/story.aspx?id=140103&menuid=591&NL=182&Fqy=1
The Nora Kroger store has installed skylights, as well as a temperature control systems that automatically adjust heating and cooling levels based on need.
In addition, the store reuses heat from refrigeration cases and equipment to heat its water, as well as the building.
Eight other Kroger stores in Indianapolis have applied for the certification, which designates buildings that are environmentally designed to perform in the top 25% of all buildings in the United States, the report said.
Nationwide, Kroger has replaced all of the fluorescent lights in its glass-door freezer cases with light-emitting diode light bars, or LED lamps, which saves about 100,000 kilowatts of energy and $10,000 per store annually, according to the report.
http://www.chainstoreage.com/story.aspx?id=140103&menuid=591&NL=182&Fqy=1
Whole Foods Using LED Lights to Reduce Energy
Whole Foods Market is stepping up its efforts to reduce energy consumption at all stores by 25% per square foot by 2015. The natural and organic foods supermarket operator has committed to a combination of strategies -- more on-site renewable energy, aggressive green building, wind energy and advanced refrigeration and transportation practices -- along with the implementation of energy and emissions tracking systems to reach its goal and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“Saving energy costs less than buying it, so we are reducing our appetite for energy from both traditional and renewable sources,” said Kathy Loftus, global leader of sustainable engineering and energy management, Whole Foods Market, Austin, Texas, which operates some 292 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.
Comprehensive retrofit and upgrade projects, which include smarter refrigeration, state-of-the-art lighting and controls systems, and advanced efficiency motors for HVAC and refrigeration, have already led to reduced consumption in Whole Foods’ existing stores. For complete coverage please visit-http://www.chainstoreage.com/WebExclusives.aspx?storyId=139991
“Saving energy costs less than buying it, so we are reducing our appetite for energy from both traditional and renewable sources,” said Kathy Loftus, global leader of sustainable engineering and energy management, Whole Foods Market, Austin, Texas, which operates some 292 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.
Comprehensive retrofit and upgrade projects, which include smarter refrigeration, state-of-the-art lighting and controls systems, and advanced efficiency motors for HVAC and refrigeration, have already led to reduced consumption in Whole Foods’ existing stores. For complete coverage please visit-http://www.chainstoreage.com/WebExclusives.aspx?storyId=139991
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
New Energy Rebates In Hawaii Can Be Used for Energy Efficient Lighting
Nearly a year after Hawaiian Electric Co. started outsourcing incentives programs designed to encourage consumers to save energy, the offerings have expanded fourfold and more are in the works.
On June 30, the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission awarded a two-year contract valued at $38 million to Science Applications International Corp. to “aggressively promote and implement energy-efficiency programs” for Hawaiian Electric’s residential customers and businesses.
The plan was seen as a way to support the state’s Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative, which commits to reducing the state’s energy use by 30 percent within 20 years, in addition to requiring that 40 percent of Hawaii’s energy come from renewable sources such as wind and solar.
Under Hawaiian Electric, the incentive programs, which are funded by ratepayers through a monthly surcharge, had been limited mostly to rebates for investing in solar hot water heating systems and Energy Star appliances on Oahu. Since Science Applications International of San Diego started running the effort, the newly named Hawaii Energy rebate programs have been expanded to include Maui, Molokai, Lanai and the Big Island. Science Applications International also plans to launch incentives in the next couple of months, including a loan program for purchasing solar hot water heaters.
As Science Applications International completes the first year of its contract, Hawaii businesses, ranging from energy auditors and solar contractors to appliance retailers, are benefiting from new and expanded initiatives as consumers take advantage of the programs.
“This first year was a transition, and now we’re really ready to change a lot of stuff,” said Derrick Sonoda, program manager for the Hawaii Energy program and a Science Applications International employee.
Sonoda previously oversaw the energy-efficiency programs when they were managed by Hawaiian Electric.
While the incentives have been funded by Hawaiian Electric’s ratepayers since the mid-1990s, a formal surcharge was not implemented by the PUC until Jan. 1, 2009, in preparation for the work to be contracted out.
The surcharge — labeled Public Benefits Fund on bills — amounts to 1 percent of the utility’s revenues from electricity sales. The average residential customer paid about $1.19 each month into the fund in 2009, and is paying $2.86 this year. That has translated into a $19 million budget for SAIC for the year ending June 30, with 70 percent going toward rebates and incentives, about 20 percent going toward program costs, and less than 10 percent covering SAIC’s services.
For complete article-http://pacific.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2010/05/17/story3.html?b=1274068800^3357531&t=printable
On June 30, the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission awarded a two-year contract valued at $38 million to Science Applications International Corp. to “aggressively promote and implement energy-efficiency programs” for Hawaiian Electric’s residential customers and businesses.
The plan was seen as a way to support the state’s Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative, which commits to reducing the state’s energy use by 30 percent within 20 years, in addition to requiring that 40 percent of Hawaii’s energy come from renewable sources such as wind and solar.
Under Hawaiian Electric, the incentive programs, which are funded by ratepayers through a monthly surcharge, had been limited mostly to rebates for investing in solar hot water heating systems and Energy Star appliances on Oahu. Since Science Applications International of San Diego started running the effort, the newly named Hawaii Energy rebate programs have been expanded to include Maui, Molokai, Lanai and the Big Island. Science Applications International also plans to launch incentives in the next couple of months, including a loan program for purchasing solar hot water heaters.
As Science Applications International completes the first year of its contract, Hawaii businesses, ranging from energy auditors and solar contractors to appliance retailers, are benefiting from new and expanded initiatives as consumers take advantage of the programs.
“This first year was a transition, and now we’re really ready to change a lot of stuff,” said Derrick Sonoda, program manager for the Hawaii Energy program and a Science Applications International employee.
Sonoda previously oversaw the energy-efficiency programs when they were managed by Hawaiian Electric.
While the incentives have been funded by Hawaiian Electric’s ratepayers since the mid-1990s, a formal surcharge was not implemented by the PUC until Jan. 1, 2009, in preparation for the work to be contracted out.
The surcharge — labeled Public Benefits Fund on bills — amounts to 1 percent of the utility’s revenues from electricity sales. The average residential customer paid about $1.19 each month into the fund in 2009, and is paying $2.86 this year. That has translated into a $19 million budget for SAIC for the year ending June 30, with 70 percent going toward rebates and incentives, about 20 percent going toward program costs, and less than 10 percent covering SAIC’s services.
For complete article-http://pacific.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2010/05/17/story3.html?b=1274068800^3357531&t=printable
Starbucks Vs McDonalds Who is More Green
Fast Company looks at both food chains to see who is more focused on
sustainability
author R. Paul Herman attempts to compare the two mega-chains. Below, we do the same.
Let's just be clear--the inherent unhealthiness of most McDonald's meals give the chain a major disadvantage, even when compared to Starbucks' high-calorie Frappucinos. That being said, McDonald's has made some inroads in sustainability. A few examples: a "green" McDonald's that offers an EV chargepoint, LED light fixtures, drought tolerant landscape plants, and an Energy Efficiency Education Dashboard; an environmental scorecard for suppliers; a successful sustainable fisheries program; and a next-generation fryer that allows restaurants to cook the same amount of product while using approximately 40% less oil than with traditional fryers.
But there's still plenty that would be would like to see. How about smaller portion sizes, for example? And yes, we realize that the "supersize" option is no longer available--but that's not enough. In an interview with R. Paul Herman, Bob Herman, the VP of Corporate Responsibility at McDonald's, explained, "We are offering choice--new menu items and new portion sizes, giving information to make these choices. This is a significant thing to do." McDonald's would also do well to use more grass-fed beef and increase its use of organic fruits and vegetables. And then there's the most disturbing question of them all: why don't McDonald's burgers decompose?
for complete article-http://www.fastcompany.com/1648898/sustainability-faceoff-mcdonalds-vs-starbucks
sustainability
author R. Paul Herman attempts to compare the two mega-chains. Below, we do the same.
Let's just be clear--the inherent unhealthiness of most McDonald's meals give the chain a major disadvantage, even when compared to Starbucks' high-calorie Frappucinos. That being said, McDonald's has made some inroads in sustainability. A few examples: a "green" McDonald's that offers an EV chargepoint, LED light fixtures, drought tolerant landscape plants, and an Energy Efficiency Education Dashboard; an environmental scorecard for suppliers; a successful sustainable fisheries program; and a next-generation fryer that allows restaurants to cook the same amount of product while using approximately 40% less oil than with traditional fryers.
But there's still plenty that would be would like to see. How about smaller portion sizes, for example? And yes, we realize that the "supersize" option is no longer available--but that's not enough. In an interview with R. Paul Herman, Bob Herman, the VP of Corporate Responsibility at McDonald's, explained, "We are offering choice--new menu items and new portion sizes, giving information to make these choices. This is a significant thing to do." McDonald's would also do well to use more grass-fed beef and increase its use of organic fruits and vegetables. And then there's the most disturbing question of them all: why don't McDonald's burgers decompose?
for complete article-http://www.fastcompany.com/1648898/sustainability-faceoff-mcdonalds-vs-starbucks
Supply Shortage of LED Lights
As reported in eetimes.com
"Earlier this year, analog, memory, logic and other IC vendors began to see huge demand, prompting shortages for select parts and extended lead times.
Now, LEDs are in short supply. ''Component lead times remain tight. A number of component vendors have told us that lead times remain fairly tight at 8-12 weeks,'' said Daniel Amir, an analyst at Lazard Capital Markets, who just returned from the recent LightFair International event.
''The supply situation is tight due to increasing demand from backlighting for TVs and general lighting markets,'' he said. ''Vendors expect this situation to persist until the end of the year at least.''
On the other hand, ASPs are dropping for LEDs. ''We have learned that prices have declined about 30 percent year-on-year on a lumen basis and should continue to drop as more supply comes to the market and performance improves,'' he said.
As a result, there are a plethora of LED projects. ''Many vendors at the show estimated that 200-plus large commercial projects were out for bids during 2010, up from (about) 50 or so last year,'' he said. ''Commercial lighting projects include warehouses, retail stores, hotels, restaurants and outside area or architectural lighting. Companies that are seeking LED solutions include Walmart, Albertson’s, Fedex, UPS, and others. Project sizes range from $2-to-$10 million and reflect ROIs in the range of 1-3 years for many installations.''
Redbird LED Launches New Line of LED Tube Lights
Redbird LED is based in Atlanta and has recently launched a new line of energy efficient LED Tube lights for commercial building applications. They have designed a new line up of products that provide high quality illumination, energy savings and reduced environmental impact. For more information please visit their LED Tube Lightt website.
"Earlier this year, analog, memory, logic and other IC vendors began to see huge demand, prompting shortages for select parts and extended lead times.
Now, LEDs are in short supply. ''Component lead times remain tight. A number of component vendors have told us that lead times remain fairly tight at 8-12 weeks,'' said Daniel Amir, an analyst at Lazard Capital Markets, who just returned from the recent LightFair International event.
''The supply situation is tight due to increasing demand from backlighting for TVs and general lighting markets,'' he said. ''Vendors expect this situation to persist until the end of the year at least.''
On the other hand, ASPs are dropping for LEDs. ''We have learned that prices have declined about 30 percent year-on-year on a lumen basis and should continue to drop as more supply comes to the market and performance improves,'' he said.
As a result, there are a plethora of LED projects. ''Many vendors at the show estimated that 200-plus large commercial projects were out for bids during 2010, up from (about) 50 or so last year,'' he said. ''Commercial lighting projects include warehouses, retail stores, hotels, restaurants and outside area or architectural lighting. Companies that are seeking LED solutions include Walmart, Albertson’s, Fedex, UPS, and others. Project sizes range from $2-to-$10 million and reflect ROIs in the range of 1-3 years for many installations.''
Redbird LED Launches New Line of LED Tube Lights
Redbird LED is based in Atlanta and has recently launched a new line of energy efficient LED Tube lights for commercial building applications. They have designed a new line up of products that provide high quality illumination, energy savings and reduced environmental impact. For more information please visit their LED Tube Lightt website.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Lazard Takes Positive Look on future of LED Lights
Lazard has upgraded LED manufacturer CREE lighting to Buy from Hold with a $90 target saying they believe demand for general LED lighting will grow at a rate of greater than 30% between 2010-2014.
They see interest in LED lighting to expand from universities and government buildings. With payback periods coming down as low as 12 months, Lazard is seeing increasing adoption of LED lighting in general , especially in the commercial building space. Lazard's checks suggest that in 2009 there were approximately 50 commercial projects using LEDs, and in 2010 lighting contracts for LEDs should reach 200+ multimillion-dollar projects. They are also seeing utilities creating rebates for LED fixtures and introducing unmetered rate schedules specifically for LED street and area lighting.
Information from www.istockanalyst.com
LED Retrofit Lights at Value Pricing
Sponsor: Redbird LED is an Atlanta based designer and manufacturer of premium quality LED Tube lights. They have introduced a new line-up of high quality LED Tube lights that were designed to provide a lower-cost option for parking garage lighting retrofits, warehouse lighting retrofits and grocery store LED Retrofits. For more information please visit their Commercial LED Retrofit website.
They see interest in LED lighting to expand from universities and government buildings. With payback periods coming down as low as 12 months, Lazard is seeing increasing adoption of LED lighting in general , especially in the commercial building space. Lazard's checks suggest that in 2009 there were approximately 50 commercial projects using LEDs, and in 2010 lighting contracts for LEDs should reach 200+ multimillion-dollar projects. They are also seeing utilities creating rebates for LED fixtures and introducing unmetered rate schedules specifically for LED street and area lighting.
Information from www.istockanalyst.com
LED Retrofit Lights at Value Pricing
Sponsor: Redbird LED is an Atlanta based designer and manufacturer of premium quality LED Tube lights. They have introduced a new line-up of high quality LED Tube lights that were designed to provide a lower-cost option for parking garage lighting retrofits, warehouse lighting retrofits and grocery store LED Retrofits. For more information please visit their Commercial LED Retrofit website.
Need to Finance Your LED Retrofit Project?
One of the few hurdles to a lighting retrofit project is the upfront costs. With an LED retrofit the ROI is clearly obvious and the payback period is short- sometimes less than one year. What holds companies back from a lighting retrofit project- the initial cost outlay. Redbird LED an Atlanta based designer and manufacturer of Premium LED Tube Lights may have the answer for you. They recently announced a new financing program they offer through their financing partner, Energy Finance, a division of RED Clay.
"Often our customers agree that an LED retrofit is a wise financial expense for their company and they want to explore methods of offsetting the upfront cost of the purchase." said Jonathan Eppstein, President of Redbird LED. One method is with rebates or tax incentives, yet another way is by spreading the purchase cost over some portion of the product's usable life. For example, a lighting improvement with a 3 year payback can be financed with a 60 month term loan, this provides a positive cash flow because the reduction in your lighting costs is greater than your monthly payment for the loan. An LED retrofit is now more compelling than ever, and this is all because a new technology is available that simply out performs traditional light sources.
For more information on financing a LED Retrofit program please visit their website www.commercialledretrofits.com or call
(678) RED-BIRD [678-733-2473]
"Often our customers agree that an LED retrofit is a wise financial expense for their company and they want to explore methods of offsetting the upfront cost of the purchase." said Jonathan Eppstein, President of Redbird LED. One method is with rebates or tax incentives, yet another way is by spreading the purchase cost over some portion of the product's usable life. For example, a lighting improvement with a 3 year payback can be financed with a 60 month term loan, this provides a positive cash flow because the reduction in your lighting costs is greater than your monthly payment for the loan. An LED retrofit is now more compelling than ever, and this is all because a new technology is available that simply out performs traditional light sources.
For more information on financing a LED Retrofit program please visit their website www.commercialledretrofits.com or call
(678) RED-BIRD [678-733-2473]
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Fresh & Easy Retrofitting Stores with LED Lights
Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market, the US subsidiary of Tesco plc, will have its medium temperature cases in its 159 stores retrofitted with LED lighting through a partnership of Nualight Ltd, a manufacturer of LED lighting solutions for retail, and Kysor/Warren, a manufacturer of refrigerated cases in North America.
Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market, the US subsidiary of Tesco plc, will have its medium temperature cases in its 159 stores retrofitted with LED lighting through a partnership of Nualight Ltd, a manufacturer of LED lighting solutions for retail, and Kysor/Warren, a manufacturer of refrigerated cases in North America.
All meat, dairy and fish cases will be upgraded to LED replacing the existing T5 Fluorescent canopy and undershelf lighting. Fresh & Easy currently uses LED lighting in external signs and freezer cases.
For rest of article please visit-http://www.environmentalleader.com/2010/05/13/fresh-easy-undertakes-led-retrofit-project/
Redbird LED has launched a new website for grocery store facility engineers and managers to provide them with information on :LED Lighting. Many grocery stores and convenience stores are discovering that LED Lights will perform much better than conventional lighting in their refrigerated cases. LED lights operate more efficiently in cold environments and provide a higher quality illumination which results in higher consumer sales. For more information please visit our grocery led lighting website
Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market, the US subsidiary of Tesco plc, will have its medium temperature cases in its 159 stores retrofitted with LED lighting through a partnership of Nualight Ltd, a manufacturer of LED lighting solutions for retail, and Kysor/Warren, a manufacturer of refrigerated cases in North America.
All meat, dairy and fish cases will be upgraded to LED replacing the existing T5 Fluorescent canopy and undershelf lighting. Fresh & Easy currently uses LED lighting in external signs and freezer cases.
For rest of article please visit-http://www.environmentalleader.com/2010/05/13/fresh-easy-undertakes-led-retrofit-project/
Redbird LED has launched a new website for grocery store facility engineers and managers to provide them with information on :LED Lighting. Many grocery stores and convenience stores are discovering that LED Lights will perform much better than conventional lighting in their refrigerated cases. LED lights operate more efficiently in cold environments and provide a higher quality illumination which results in higher consumer sales. For more information please visit our grocery led lighting website
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
New Oak Park City Hall Installs LED Lighting
There are hardly any light switches in the new Oak Park Heights City Hall.
Energy-saving LED lights turn on only if a sensor detects motion, heat and sound; photometric sensors adjust indoor lighting to compensate for daylight.
The new $6.5 million municipal building, which opens May 17, also features a state-of-the-art geothermal heating and cooling system, rain gardens and a heat-recovery system that reclaims energy from the air before it is discharged outside.
City officials pushed for green, sustainable construction techniques to save money and help the environment.
"The function of the building will provide many years of value to the residents of Oak Park Heights," said Mayor David Beaudet.
In addition, the new City Hall, just north and west of the old one, is more customer-friendly. Instead of four separate doors for police, administration, utility billing and public works, the building has one main entrance, which visitors enter after passing under a large steel canopy.
The building's signature design item is its soaring rotunda, which is warmed by in-floor radiant heat. "The rotunda and overall building design has been quite inspirational," Beaudet said. "It adds value to people coming to work at City Hall and for people coming to visit."
For rest of article please go to http://www.twincities.com/ci_15042419?source=most_emailed
Energy-saving LED lights turn on only if a sensor detects motion, heat and sound; photometric sensors adjust indoor lighting to compensate for daylight.
The new $6.5 million municipal building, which opens May 17, also features a state-of-the-art geothermal heating and cooling system, rain gardens and a heat-recovery system that reclaims energy from the air before it is discharged outside.
City officials pushed for green, sustainable construction techniques to save money and help the environment.
"The function of the building will provide many years of value to the residents of Oak Park Heights," said Mayor David Beaudet.
In addition, the new City Hall, just north and west of the old one, is more customer-friendly. Instead of four separate doors for police, administration, utility billing and public works, the building has one main entrance, which visitors enter after passing under a large steel canopy.
The building's signature design item is its soaring rotunda, which is warmed by in-floor radiant heat. "The rotunda and overall building design has been quite inspirational," Beaudet said. "It adds value to people coming to work at City Hall and for people coming to visit."
For rest of article please go to http://www.twincities.com/ci_15042419?source=most_emailed
New IFMA-Johnson Control Survey- Energy Effficiency Spending to Increase in 2010
According to a survey of decision makers responsible for managing commercial buildings, planned energy efficiency investments across North America are expected to rebound in 2010.
Known as the Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI), the survey was fielded in March 2010. More than 1,400 business leaders responded to the EEI, which was commissioned by Johnson Controls Inc. and the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).
Clay Nesler, vice president of global energy and sustainability for Johnson Controls’ Building Efficiency unit, said the EEI results show that energy efficiency is receiving more attention from the CEOs, CFOs, real estate leaders, and facility managers who were surveyed. “Sixty-five percent of those surveyed say they are paying more attention to energy efficiency than they were a year ago.”
When it came to prioritizing energy efficiency, Nesler said, “We observed a dip this year.” In 2010, 84 percent considered it a priority, compared to 93 percent in 2009.
But investment is still expected to go up in 2010. Fifty-two percent of respondents plan to make energy efficiency improvements financed with capital expenditures compared to 46 percent in 2009. Additionally, 60 percent (up form 55 percent in 2009) plan to make operating budget investments in energy efficiency improvements over the next 12 months.
While enthusiasm for energy efficiency remains high, respondents said limited capital availability (38 percent) is the greatest barrier to capturing the potential energy savings, followed by issues with insufficient payback (21 percent) and savings uncertainty (16 percent).
During the last 12 months, 41 percent reported investing less in energy efficiency as a result of tough economic times, but 32 percent invested more in energy efficiency, and 27 percent invested at historically consistent levels.
The most important factor driving energy efficiency, according to survey respondents, is energy cost savings. When considering energy efficiency investments, 44 percent require a simple payback of less than three years. Significantly, 64 percent believe energy prices will climb again during 2010, and the average expectation among respondents is a 7 percent increase.
The survey found that the likelihood of investment depended on organizational size and industry sector. Small businesses and organizations are much less likely to invest in energy efficiency compared with large businesses. Government and education organizations are more likely to invest, while the retail sector particularly lags behind.
“In summary, it appears that investment in energy efficiency is expected to increase in 2010,” Nesler said. “Even in the absence of federal climate legislation, the key drivers will be energy cost concerns, public image, climate leadership goals, and government incentives.”
For more information please visit www.edcmag.com
LED Lights Important Technology For Energy Savings
There is a general consensus that the easiest energy saving can be achieved through a lighting retrofit program. new LED lights provide energy savings between 30 and 50% depending on current lighting in the building. The life span of LED lights is up to 50,000 hours reducing the need to replace the lamps as frequently. Redbird LED has released a line of new high quality LED Tube lights that offers high quality illumination and lower pricing. Their LED Lights are suitable for parking garages, retail stores and corporate buildings. for more information please visit their new LED Tube Light website
Known as the Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI), the survey was fielded in March 2010. More than 1,400 business leaders responded to the EEI, which was commissioned by Johnson Controls Inc. and the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).
Clay Nesler, vice president of global energy and sustainability for Johnson Controls’ Building Efficiency unit, said the EEI results show that energy efficiency is receiving more attention from the CEOs, CFOs, real estate leaders, and facility managers who were surveyed. “Sixty-five percent of those surveyed say they are paying more attention to energy efficiency than they were a year ago.”
When it came to prioritizing energy efficiency, Nesler said, “We observed a dip this year.” In 2010, 84 percent considered it a priority, compared to 93 percent in 2009.
But investment is still expected to go up in 2010. Fifty-two percent of respondents plan to make energy efficiency improvements financed with capital expenditures compared to 46 percent in 2009. Additionally, 60 percent (up form 55 percent in 2009) plan to make operating budget investments in energy efficiency improvements over the next 12 months.
While enthusiasm for energy efficiency remains high, respondents said limited capital availability (38 percent) is the greatest barrier to capturing the potential energy savings, followed by issues with insufficient payback (21 percent) and savings uncertainty (16 percent).
During the last 12 months, 41 percent reported investing less in energy efficiency as a result of tough economic times, but 32 percent invested more in energy efficiency, and 27 percent invested at historically consistent levels.
The most important factor driving energy efficiency, according to survey respondents, is energy cost savings. When considering energy efficiency investments, 44 percent require a simple payback of less than three years. Significantly, 64 percent believe energy prices will climb again during 2010, and the average expectation among respondents is a 7 percent increase.
The survey found that the likelihood of investment depended on organizational size and industry sector. Small businesses and organizations are much less likely to invest in energy efficiency compared with large businesses. Government and education organizations are more likely to invest, while the retail sector particularly lags behind.
“In summary, it appears that investment in energy efficiency is expected to increase in 2010,” Nesler said. “Even in the absence of federal climate legislation, the key drivers will be energy cost concerns, public image, climate leadership goals, and government incentives.”
For more information please visit www.edcmag.com
LED Lights Important Technology For Energy Savings
There is a general consensus that the easiest energy saving can be achieved through a lighting retrofit program. new LED lights provide energy savings between 30 and 50% depending on current lighting in the building. The life span of LED lights is up to 50,000 hours reducing the need to replace the lamps as frequently. Redbird LED has released a line of new high quality LED Tube lights that offers high quality illumination and lower pricing. Their LED Lights are suitable for parking garages, retail stores and corporate buildings. for more information please visit their new LED Tube Light website
Starbucks Uses LED Lights in new Soho Store
Chain Store Age presented information on new LEED Starbucks store in New York
There is nothing cookie-cutter about Starbucks’ renovated store in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood. From the furniture to the flooring to the lighting, the 15-year-old store has undergone a complete makeover.
In keeping with Starbucks’ commitment to build locally relevant stores going forward, the design draws upon SoHo’s rich heritage and its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The shop is warm and earthy, with industrial accents. It feels real and authentic -- and totally at home in its locale.
"Everything from the chairs to the smaller cafe tables were chosen to create a more intimate environment for our customers," said Tim Pfeiffer, senior VP global design, Starbucks. “There is soft seating in every seat, with the exception of the bar stools.”
The visual highlights include two large paintings by famed New York “messaging” artist Peter Tunney. Reflecting Starbucks’ mission, words such as “gratitude” and "peace " are integrated into the collage-styled paintings. A series of evocative black and white photos behind the counter show scenes from the communities scattered around the globe where Starbucks coffee beans are farmed.
“For the first time, we are providing a visual story of where our coffee comes from,” Pfeiffer said.
GREEN: The design emphasizes locally sourced materials and reused/recycled elements: A bench table, chairs and flooring are made from repurposed wood from Pennsylvania, while wallpaper comes from reused burlap coffee sacks from Starbucks roasting plants. Lighting is provided by energy-efficient LED lamps. The store is registered for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification as part of Starbuck’s commitment to the U.S. Green Building Council’s Volume Certification pilot program. It’s one of 12 pilot stores worldwide that Starbucks is opening in conjunction with the Volume program
To read full coverage please visit http://www.chainstoreage.com/WebExclusives.aspx?storyId=138181
Redbird LED is based in Atlanta and has recently launched a new line of energy efficient LED Tube lights for commercial building applications. They have designed a new line up of products that provide high quality illumination, energy savings and reduced environmental impact. For more information please visit their LED Tube Light website.
There is nothing cookie-cutter about Starbucks’ renovated store in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood. From the furniture to the flooring to the lighting, the 15-year-old store has undergone a complete makeover.
In keeping with Starbucks’ commitment to build locally relevant stores going forward, the design draws upon SoHo’s rich heritage and its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The shop is warm and earthy, with industrial accents. It feels real and authentic -- and totally at home in its locale.
"Everything from the chairs to the smaller cafe tables were chosen to create a more intimate environment for our customers," said Tim Pfeiffer, senior VP global design, Starbucks. “There is soft seating in every seat, with the exception of the bar stools.”
The visual highlights include two large paintings by famed New York “messaging” artist Peter Tunney. Reflecting Starbucks’ mission, words such as “gratitude” and "peace " are integrated into the collage-styled paintings. A series of evocative black and white photos behind the counter show scenes from the communities scattered around the globe where Starbucks coffee beans are farmed.
“For the first time, we are providing a visual story of where our coffee comes from,” Pfeiffer said.
GREEN: The design emphasizes locally sourced materials and reused/recycled elements: A bench table, chairs and flooring are made from repurposed wood from Pennsylvania, while wallpaper comes from reused burlap coffee sacks from Starbucks roasting plants. Lighting is provided by energy-efficient LED lamps. The store is registered for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification as part of Starbuck’s commitment to the U.S. Green Building Council’s Volume Certification pilot program. It’s one of 12 pilot stores worldwide that Starbucks is opening in conjunction with the Volume program
To read full coverage please visit http://www.chainstoreage.com/WebExclusives.aspx?storyId=138181
Redbird LED is based in Atlanta and has recently launched a new line of energy efficient LED Tube lights for commercial building applications. They have designed a new line up of products that provide high quality illumination, energy savings and reduced environmental impact. For more information please visit their LED Tube Light website.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Pike Research LED Lighting to Become 46% of Commercial Lighting Market
Wider use of energy efficient lighting technologies already available today would lead to huge energy savings. A range of government incentives and other programs currently exist to encourage lighting retrofits in existing facilities as well as to lead developers to install efficient lighting in new projects. In addition, government and industry are investing significant resources into the development of even more efficient and better performing lighting technologies.
LED Lighting Will be 46% of Commercial Lighting Market
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 analysis of 16 key industry players.
For more information please visit www.pikeresearch.com
Redbird LED Talks About LED Retrofits at Green Building Symposium
This past weekend Georgia Interfaith Power & Light and Southeast Green sponsored , Green Building Symposium at Trinity Presbyterian in Atlanta, Georgia. A number of the speakers discussed the many benefits of lighting retrofits in any energy efficiency program. John Noel of Energy & Environment told the audience that retrofitting lighting was " ..truly the low hanging fruit of any energy efficiency program.". Jonathan Barletta, with Redbird LED presented the many benefits of using LED Tube lights in a lighting retrofit program. Barletta quoted the EPA who has advocated LED Lighting as the future of energy efficiency lighting.
Redbird LED sees LED lighting as a way to reduce energy and maintenance costs as well as a reduction in environmental impact. Some other benefits that can be overlooked is that LED lights have a"tough" side and can withstand more shock and physical disturbance than conventional lighting. Also LED lights outperform other types of lighting in colder environments. This makes them the logical choice for grocery store refrigerated cases, warehouses and parking garages.
Redbird LED demonstrated one of their new LED Lights that they recently launched for parking garage lighting solutions. Just one fixture bathed the room with white light. It was very impressive. For more informtion on Energy & Environment please visit their website,www.energyandenvironment.com. For information about Redbird LED please go to either their www.commercialledretrofits.com or parkinggarageleds.com
Redbird LED sees LED lighting as a way to reduce energy and maintenance costs as well as a reduction in environmental impact. Some other benefits that can be overlooked is that LED lights have a"tough" side and can withstand more shock and physical disturbance than conventional lighting. Also LED lights outperform other types of lighting in colder environments. This makes them the logical choice for grocery store refrigerated cases, warehouses and parking garages.
Redbird LED demonstrated one of their new LED Lights that they recently launched for parking garage lighting solutions. Just one fixture bathed the room with white light. It was very impressive. For more informtion on Energy & Environment please visit their website,www.energyandenvironment.com. For information about Redbird LED please go to either their www.commercialledretrofits.com or parkinggarageleds.com
Saturday, May 8, 2010
EPA Announces New Energy Efficiency Program for Commercial Buildings
—In partnership with several states and utilities, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a new pilot program designed to further improve commercial building energy efficiency. Building Performance with Energy Star will help utilities and state energy efficiency programs achieve increased energy savings and fight climate change by strategically pursuing whole building energy improvements with their business customers. The pilot program is being launched with Energy Star partners Com Ed, MidAmerican, National Grid, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison and Wisconsin Focus on Energy.
Modeled after the successful Home Performance with Energy Star program, Building Performance with Energy Star will provide a framework for regional energy efficiency programs to align their financial incentives and technical assistance with a comprehensive approach to building upgrades. Building Performance with Energy Star includes several key elements to help states and utilities promote an inclusive strategy for improving energy efficiency. These elements include measuring energy use with EPA’s online energy measurement and tracking tool, Portfolio Manager, to score building performance; approaching energy efficiency opportunities in light of findings from whole building assessments; and creating a robust delivery network for whole building efficiency services.
Redbird LED has announced a new LED lighting retrofit solution that will save commercial building owners between 30 and 50 % on their energy costs. LED Tube lights have proven to save not only energy costs but also reduce maintenance costs and eliminate the recycling that older lamps that contain harmful mercury need. For more information please visit their LED Lighting Retrofit website.
Modeled after the successful Home Performance with Energy Star program, Building Performance with Energy Star will provide a framework for regional energy efficiency programs to align their financial incentives and technical assistance with a comprehensive approach to building upgrades. Building Performance with Energy Star includes several key elements to help states and utilities promote an inclusive strategy for improving energy efficiency. These elements include measuring energy use with EPA’s online energy measurement and tracking tool, Portfolio Manager, to score building performance; approaching energy efficiency opportunities in light of findings from whole building assessments; and creating a robust delivery network for whole building efficiency services.
Redbird LED has announced a new LED lighting retrofit solution that will save commercial building owners between 30 and 50 % on their energy costs. LED Tube lights have proven to save not only energy costs but also reduce maintenance costs and eliminate the recycling that older lamps that contain harmful mercury need. For more information please visit their LED Lighting Retrofit website.
Hyatt Hotel Completes LED Retrofit.
The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress began its remodel to comply with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Lodging program, a voluntary initiative for hotels and motels across the state to adopt cost-saving green practices to conserve energy, reduce water consumption, protect air quality and reduce waste. In order to become a more environmentally conscious organization as well as to reduce its extensive utility costs, resort management turned to Regency Lighting to consult on energy conservation measures and to install LED lighting throughout the hotel.
“We are constantly looking for ways to cut down on utility costs, and our lobbies and hallways are lit 24-hours a day, seven days a week,” said Rick Jackson, Chief Engineer, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress. “Working with Regency Lighting, we were able to compare the cost and energy savings of Cree LED products with the traditional lighting we had been using. The LED lighting installations in the hotel hallways and lobby are not only significantly reducing our electric bill and saving on maintenance costs, but are providing better quality lighting for our guests.”
According to Regency Lighting, replacing the resort’s hallway lighting with Cree LR6s is projected to have a cumulative savings of approximately $131,659 in the first year, with a return on investment of about nine months. These savings include projected energy, labor and cooling expenses, as well as the cost of the lamps. A cumulative savings of more than half a million dollars are predicted by the fourth year of installation.
“LED lighting is a natural fit for hotels and resorts because it provides extreme energy efficiency and longevity with beautiful, warm color – a solution designers have been unable to find with any other technology,” said Gary Trott, Cree vice president of market development, LED lighting. “The savings associated with LEDs more than make the business case for switching to LEDs, and with its recent installations, the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is certainly leading the hospitality industry in energy-efficient lighting.”
Sponsor; Redbird LED is an Atlanta based leader in the design and manufacturing of LED Tube lights. Their new product line is well-suited for lighting retrofit projects in hotels and other commercial buildings including parking garages, grocery stores and warehouses.For more information on the energy saving benefits of LED lighting please visit their commercial led retrofit website.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Redbird LED Will Join Panel Discussion at Green Building Symposium
Dr. David Gushee will be our keynote speaker discussing Faith, Ethics and the Environment. Dr. Gushee is a professor at Mercer Seminary and a nationally recognized figure for his role in environmental ethics.
Panelists Include:
Alexis Chase/Georgia Interfaith Power & Light
Jeff Dinkle/Sustain.ATL
Corey Arnold/Peachtree Pest Control
Tracy Yount/AECOM
John Noel/Energy and Environment LLC
Jonathan Barletta /Red Bird LED Lighting
Aldan Hathaway/Sterling Planet
Carla Hathaway/Lights For Africa
Registration fee is $15.00. We will provide a yummy organic lunch for $15.00 or just Brown Bag it! Space is limited, register now.
Are you a local green business interested in a resource table at this event? Register on-line for a $50 table at this event, space is limited.
The Green Building Symposium will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church from 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
3003 Howell Mill Road, NW · Atlanta, Georgia 30327 · 404.237.6491 Send a representative from your faith community to learn how you can green your congregation by making your building more sustainable!
Redbird LED is an Atlanta based manufacturer of high quality LED Tube lighting for commercial buildings. Retrofitting with Redbird LED lights can save up to 50% on energy costs for more information please visit thier website www.commercialledretrofits.com
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