Lighting Blog - The Energy Smiths - Keep updated with LED Lighting News

01Oct 2017 by Emma Head

Rebates are Back for a Limited Time

As of September 2017, another round of lighting rebates are available from San Diego Gas & Electric. What does this mean for the consumer? The goal of this program is to replace inefficient lights with newer LED models cutting down on wasted energy. Mandated by the California Public Utilities Council, these rebates actually pay consumers to save money on energy in the future. They realize the benefits of LED to both the consumer and the environment including durability, energy efficiency, and extended usable life. With growing energy efficiency standards in California especially, getting ahead of changing regulations saves time and frustration in the long run. Legislation like Title 24 is making an impact on lighting upgrades and standards in California, and is only getting more stringent over the years. These…

05Sep 2017 by Emma Head

How can LED Lighting Benefit Business?

With energy prices constantly on the rise, many business owners are looking for options on how to save money. What generally comes to mind first is investing in solar energy. Although switching to renewables is a great option for the environment, it is just a temporary patch on the problem. Wouldn’t it make more sense to lower consumption FIRST then offset electricity costs? What many people don't consider first is LED lighting. How does LED lighting benefit business?This type of thinking is common now, focusing on fixing the problem after-the-fact rather than starting at the root of the situation. The easiest way to reduce monthly utility bills is right over your head. Lighting! A commercial business’s lighting cost can range from at least 10 to 30 percent of an average monthly…

08Aug 2017 by Emma Head

Seasonal Changes in Lighting Costs

As the year goes by and fall begins, the days get shorter and night get longer. You may ask, how does this affect my lighting costs? You may not have thought about it, but longer nights call for extended periods of exterior lighting usage. In the span of a few months, the sun will be setting earlier and lights turning on earlier, costing you more. Most lighting operates on a timer system, turning on when the sensor realizes it’s dark. These timer systems are not the most reliable after a few years due to damage by UV rays, so it is important to get them inspected every few years. Interior lighting costs could be affected too. Here in San Diego, when fall and winter comes, the sun can set as early…