PNM Community CFL Exchange Program
In 2007, PNM teamed up with the Sierra Club on the PNM Community CFL
Exchange Program, which focused on bringing energy efficiency information to
residents in the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas. The program originated from the
participation of the New Mexico chapters of the Sierra Club and Interfaith Power
& Light in "Step It Up," a national grassroots program that uses CFLs to spark
dialogue on global warming. PNM learned of the program and partnered with the
Sierra Club to develop a targeted effort in Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
Sierra Club volunteers distribute CFLs
and explain the energy-saving benefits
at the Enviro Fair on May 31, 2008 in
Santa Ana Pueblo, NM.
Photo Credit: Sierra
Club |
The program had two main components: (1) a school-based assembly program
featuring a slideshow presentation on energy and global warming for 3rd to 5th
grade students, coupled with distribution of CFLs to parents, teachers, and
staff; and (2) a public outreach effort with tabling at community events,
neighborhood walks and partnerships with community organizations to exchange
incandescent bulbs for CFLs. PNM committed 40,000 CFL bulbs for distribution in
Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Meanwhile, the Sierra Club organized volunteers and
coordinated the presentations at schools and public events.
By exchanging 40,000 incandescent lamps for CFLs, New Mexico families will
save about $2 million in the cost of energy and light bulbs, save about 22
million kWh over the lifetime of the CFLs, and prevent about 15,000 metric tons
of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Lessons learned from the program include the
importance of securing approval from top executives (that is, school district
superintendents) in order to obtain buy-in from school personnel and teachers,
maintaining consistent communication and messaging, and being realistic about
volunteer recruitment and retention.
Quick Facts
- Total CFLs exchanged: 40,000
- Number of "Energy Efficiency Assemblies": 39
- Total Estimated Cost Savings: $2 million
- Estimated Energy Savings: 22 million kWh
- Estimated Environmental Benefit: 15,000 metric tons of avoided
CO2 emissions
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