Changing Light Bulbs to Change the Planet  

 Out with the old, in with the new! Twenty-eight DSBN schools have replaced standard lights and fixtures with energy efficient versions which will save enough power to illuminate one high school or six elementary schools for an entire year. This initiative was made possible through the Electricity Retrofit Incentive Program (ERIP).

Implemented by Canadian Niagara Power Inc. in cooperation with the Ontario Power Authority, Hydro One, Niagara Peninsula Energy and Welland Hydro, participating DSBN schools had their lights catalogued and their needs assessed by Osram Sylvania to ensure that by changing lights they could simultaneously save energy and improve light quality in schools.

While most homeowners can relate to changing a few light bulbs in their homes, the DSBN lighting retrofit project was a bit more complex. In all, 12,694 fluorescent light tubes and 6,397 fluorescent ballasts were replaced. The retrofit was made possible through the incentive program which will refund up to 40% of the cost of the project to the DSBN.

On Friday, March 25 at 1:00 p.m. Canadian Niagara Power Inc. will present a cheque for $88,589 to the DSBN. “This program is a win-win for everyone,” said Director of Education, Warren Hoshizaki. “Decreasing our energy consumption is fiscally sound however, because this project also improves the lighting in our schools, our students’ learning experience is heightened as well.”

 “Canadian Niagara Power and its partners are pleased to support the efforts of the DSBN to conserve energy. Canadian Niagara Power’s conservation and demand management programs provide a range of incentives to help our customers reduced electricity consumption and save money,” said Glen King, Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer, Canadian Niagara Power Inc.

 Niagara Falls, Fort Erie & Surrounding Areas