Governor John Lynch Proclaims October 5th "ENERGY STAR Change a Light, Change the World Day"
October 5, 2005

CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch has proclaimed today "ENERGY STAR Change a Light, Change the World Day" as part of a nationwide effort to highlight simple steps citizens can take to save energy, money and reduce pollution.

"Lighting accounts for nearly 20 percent of the electricity we use in our homes," said Governor Lynch. "Switching to energy-efficient lighting is an easy step we can take to reduce our energy use, save on our electric bills and reduce pollution. I encourage all New Hampshire citizens to consider taking the ENERGY STAR Change a Light Pledge," Gov. Lynch said.

New Hampshire residents can take the Pledge at www.energystar.gov/changealight.

Citizens are encouraged to switch to light fixtures or bulbs that have earned the ENERGY STAR label, which designates products that prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency and US Department of Energy.

If every household in New Hampshire acts through this Pledge, the change would save annually more than $3 million in energy costs and prevent more than 26,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, the equivalent of taking more than 4,800 cars off the road.

Qualifying energy-efficient light bulbs use two-thirds less energy than standard bulbs and last six to ten times longer.

Gov. Lynch is joining with the federal government and many other governors across the country to celebrate ENERGY STAR Change a Light, Change the World Day and bring attention to the importance of using energy wisely at home.

"Energy is on everyone's minds these days and people want to know what they can do - how to save money, how to preserve our energy resources, and how to improve our environment," said Robert W. Varney, regional administrator of EPA’s New England Office.

Today is the official kickoff of the national Change a Light, Change the World educational campaign, led by the federal government. The campaign encourages Americans to take a simple action - switching to energy-efficient lighting - to help preserve energy resources and protect the environment.

The national educational campaign is run in partnership with hundreds of retail stores, manufacturers, energy efficiency organizations, and state governments. The campaign takes place each October, during Energy Awareness Month.

New Hampshire citizens can find energy star lighting products and rebate opportunities at participating retailers in their areas by visiting www.nhsaves.com.