Incandescent Bulbs Are Still The Norm In B.C. Homes

A recent BC Hydro survey illuminates the fact that inefficient incandescent bulbs remain the most widely used type of residential lighting across the province, resulting in wasted energy and money for BC Hydro customers.

While LED bulb adoption is on the rise, more than three quarters of British Columbians report having at least one incandescent bulb in their home. The average home has just under 40 light bulbs, and nearly half (an average of 17) are incandescent bulbs.

This is despite the fact that retailers have phased out sales of most types of incandescent bulbs since new energy performance standards were implemented by the federal government in 2014.

Delay in LED adoption is costing British Columbians. The average B.C. household has about 40 light bulbs and tubes – more than ever before.

  • Delaying the switch from incandescent bulbs adds up to significant loss in savings opportunity for British Columbians.
  • Switching out a variety of traditional incandescent and halogen incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs could save a B.C. family nearly $1,000 over 10 years.
  • LED bulbs use at least 75 per cent less energy than incandescent lighting and can last up to 25 years. One LED bulb will translate into $100 in energy savings over its lifespan.

LED bulbs use at least 75 per cent less energy than incandescent lighting and can last up to 25 years. By making small changes, such as changing out the inefficient bulbs in the home to ENERGY STAR LEDs, BC Hydro customers can save up to $1,000 over ten years.

From April 6 to 27, BC Hydro is offering 15 per cent off the purchase of select ENERGY STAR LED bulbs at retailers around the province to help customers make the switch to LEDs – the most efficient lighting option on the market.

Both Rona & Home Hardware are participating retailers in this program.