Big Energy, Money Savings Thanks To Lighting Grant

Date: 5/23/07
Contact: Eric Jome

Illinois State University will further reduce its electricity consumption and save thousands of dollars in energy costs per year by installing more energy efficient lighting fixtures in campus buildings. The lighting upgrades, part of an on-going University energy conservation plan, are made possible by a $250,000 grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (ICECF).

Illinois State will use the ICECF grant money to upgrade nearly 6,400 lighting fixtures in 11 buildings across campus. The upgrades will mean a 495 kW reduction in electricity use. University officials estimate that reduction could save Illinois State approximately $250,000 annually, depending on the market cost of energy.

This marks the third year that Illinois State has received grant funding from the ICECF for energy efficient lighting upgrades. Over the past two years, thousands of fluorescent light fixtures in classroom buildings have been upgraded with new electric ballasts and T-8 fluorescent lamps.

Buildings that will receive lighting upgrades under the grant include Milner Library, University High School, Moulton Hall, DeGarmo Hall, Student Services Building, Cook Hall, Instructional Technology and Development Center, Huddleson Building, Professional Development Building, Vitro Center and Horton Field House.

The ICECF is an independent, nonprofit grant-making institution that was created to support efforts that protect and improve the environment in Illinois communities. It promotes increased energy efficiency, expanded use of renewable energy resources and preservation and enhancement of natural areas and wildlife habitats throughout Illinois. The ICECF provides grant funding for projects that advance specific program priorities related to those goals.