FP Green Sanctuary Logo

First Parish in Concord

Green Sanctuary Group

First Parish > Green Sanctuary

Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Compact fluorescent bulb

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are much more efficient than regular, incandescent light bulbs, using about a quarter of the energy.  For example, a 15-watt compact fluorescent bulb gives off the same amount of light as a 60-watt incandescent bulb. First Parish is in the process of converting to CFLs.

Compact fluorescents come in sizes that match typical incandescent bulbs and can be used in most household fixtures. Although they are more expensive, compact fluorescents last about ten times as long as a comparable incandescent bulb, and you can often get them free or at a discount through your electric company.

Available from:

Rebates:

Concord residents can receive a rebate when they purchase CFL bulbs. Send the receipt to the Concord Municipal Light Plant along with a rebate form that is available on line, and you will receive the rebate as a credit on your electric bill.

Notes:

  • Compact fluorescents contain mercury and must be disposed of as hazardous waste. For example, in Concord, old bulbs can be taken to the Public Works office on Keyes Road. If broken, a compact fluorescent bulb could release mercury as vapor or liquid. However, the amount of mercury is very small and can be safely cleaned up (details). By contrast, incandescent bulbs themselves are free of mercury, but burning these bulbs results in more mercury emissions into the environment.
  • Standard compact fluorescents should not be used in fixtures with dimmer switches. Dimmable compact fluorescents are now available, but more expensive.