Free electric bulbs save energy

Spencerport Municipal Electric has teamed up with Independent Energy Efficiency Program, Inc. Together they've come up with a bright idea to help customers save money on their electric bills. Since April 7, electric customers have been able to bring in their electric bill to Ritchie Family Hardware and receive two free Energy Star labeled compact fluorescent bulbs at no charge.

The 20 watt compact fluorescent bulbs generate the same amount of light as a 75 watt incandescent bulb, have a guaranteed life of five years, and provide the same quality of standard light bulbs. The packaging indicates that each bulb will save the customer thirty three dollars in energy costs.

"We've given away about 500 bulbs so far," said Cindy Ritchie, "and we have enough for everyone." Ritchie points out that customers must present their original March 2003 electric bill and not a photocopy to receive their free lightbulbs.

The Energy Saver fluorescent bulbs have come a long way in the past few years. Earlier models were similar to traditional fluorescent bulbs in that they took longer to come on. The bulbs that are being given away are like incandescent bulbs, meaning that the customer won't have to sacrifice any of the convenience to save energy.

Electric customers can receive their two Energy Star Bulbs at Ritchie Family Hardware, located at 129 South Union Street in Spencerport. The program will continue until all of the light bulbs have been given away.