The 30 dimmable stage lights will decrease the recital hall’s energy use by 85 percent and result in annual electricity savings of 22,500 kilowatt-hours, displacing 5.4 tons of carbon. The fixtures will save the university $3,500 a year.
The retrofitting could qualify HSU for a $5,400 rebate through the Pacific Gas and Electric Energy Efficiency Partnership, a statewide initiative that offers financial incentives to California State University and University of California schools that reduce their energy consumption.
The 60-watt bulbs will also produce better light quality on stage, says HEIF Manager and graduate student Kirstin Hervin (’12, Energy, Technology and Policy). The existing 500-watt incandescent bulbs produce one dense hot spot and a halo of light, whereas the LEDs will distribute light more evenly, making it easier to read sheet music, she says.
HEIF graduate student intern Laudie Jamous (’12, Energy, Technology and Policy) drafted the proposal last semester with help from Plant Operations Electrician Bill Clem. Plant Operations will install the fixtures later this semester.
HEIF is a student-led fund that supports projects to reduce the university’s environmental impact and energy consumption. Visit humboldt.edu/heif for more information.