Authorizing the Committee on the Environment to hold public hearings to investigate the energy and cost savings associated with replacing all light bulbs in City buildings, particularly City Hall, with ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs.

WHEREAS, ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs use 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer; and

WHEREAS, A longer bulb life would also generate savings in the labor needed to change bulbs on a semi-regular basis; and

WHEREAS, ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs save an average of $30.00 in electricity costs over the lifetime of the bulb. In Council Chambers alone, this could generate an $11,000 savings; and

WHEREAS, In 2010, PECO's rate caps are expected to come off, which will potentially increase the realized cost savings associated with using more energy efficient light bulbs; and

WHEREAS, ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs also produce 75 percent less heat, which make them safer to operate and can make a difference in cooling costs; and

WHEREAS, The City of Philadelphia must lead by example and incorporate energy efficient practices into its operations; and

WHEREAS, By using less energy, the City can reduce its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming and climate change; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That City Council's Committee on the Environment is hereby authorized to hold public hearings to investigate the energy and cost savings associated with replacing all light bulbs in City buildings, particularly City Hall, with ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent bulbs.

End