ISTC recently completed a retrofit of lighting at its headquarters building in Champaign, with assistance from UI Facilities and Services. All T12 fluorescent light fixtures and exits signs have been upgraded to T8s and LEDs. Altogether, the changes are expected to save 160,000 kWhs annually.
T12 lamps are being phased out nationally due to changes in federal energy standards which are meant to encourage improved efficiency at commercial and industral facilities. See Fluorescent Light Standard Changes and Lighting Answers: T8 Fluorescent Lamps for more information on these changes and the comparisons between the two types of lamps. According to the Ameren Illinois Act on Energy program, switching from T12 fixtures to high-performance T8 or T5 lamps and an electronic ballast could result in savings of 33% or more on your electricity bills each year.
If your business is interested in a lighting retrofit to T8 or T5 lamps or LEDs in order to increase efficiency and cut costs, you can apply for cash incentives for your project via the Act on Energy program. Visit the Lighting Incentives page on the Act on Energy web site for application information and assistance with identifying a contractor in your area.