As part of a national effort to save energy and money, reduce reliance on foreign energy sources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Governor Ted Kulongoski recently urged Oregonians to participate in ENERGY STAR Change a Light, Change the World Day on October 5, 2005 with a pledge to change at least one standard light bulb at home to an energy-efficient model.

“Lighting accounts for nearly 20 percent of the electricity we use at home, and switching to energy-efficient lighting is an easy step we can each take that will make a difference in conserving energy, helping our environment, and saving money on energy bills,” said Governor Kulongoski. “I urge all Oregonians to do your part to conserve energy – and save money – by joining me today in taking the ENERGY STAR pledge.”

The national Change a Light, Change the World educational campaign is organized by the federal government and takes place each October during Energy Awareness Month and around the transition to Daylight Saving Time. As part of this campaign, Oregonians are encouraged to switch to light fixtures or bulbs that have earned the ENERGY STAR label, which designates products that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy.

Qualifying, energy-efficient light bulbs use two-thirds less energy than standard bulbs and last six to ten times longer. If every household in Oregon acts through this pledge, the savings would amount to $7.5 million in energy costs and prevent 36,675 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions – the equivalent to taking more than 7,950 cars off the road.

Take the Pledge!