Faced with rocketing energy costs and dingy working conditions, Vicki Appleby, owner of Crowfoot Dodge, decided in 2008 that it was time to replace her company’s lighting system. Choosing to retrofit the older of the two service bays first, Appleby wanted to provide the mechanics and detailers with bright, focused lighting that would reflect when they were working under vehicles.
The solution was to replace 23 of their 400 W metal halides with 200 W induction lights. With an estimated payback period of 26 to 42 months, Appleby notes that “ultimately it costs less to put in energy efficient lighting.” But the benefits extend beyond savings. With a lifespan of 100,000 hours, the dealership will no longer have to spend time getting a forklift out to change a lightbulb, and at 60-65% more efficient, the new lights mean reduced energy bills. Appleby has also accomplished her goal of providing employees with a brighter work environment. “It’s tough, when you’re working inside all day and you’ve got dark dingy lights,” said general manager James Staddon of their pre-retrofit work space, “unless you like the feeling of working in a seedy bar.”
For Crowfoot Dodge, this is just the beginning of a complete lighting overhaul. “We’re always trying to find something new, exciting, cost efficient and good for the environment,” said Staddon. “There are so many pluses to adding new lighting; we’re going to continue to make improvements and see the benefits.”
