The way you light your business makes a big impact - for customers, for employees and for your bottom line.
More and more companies are making the choice to upgrade to LED lights because of the numerous business benefits.
In addition to immediate cost savings, LED lights are more energy efficient, better for the environment and, thanks to new programs, upgrading to LED lights doesn’t have to cost a dime.
Thinking your upgrade to LED lights? Find out how you can upgrade for $0 down.
Should Your Business Consider Upgrading to LED Lights?
LED lighting has many benefits that make it an attractive choice for businesses. Here are a few key benefits:
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Energy Efficiency: LED lights are far more energy-efficient than traditional lighting options, like fluorescent and incandescent bulbs. They use up to 80% less energy, leading to significant reductions in electricity costs.
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Longevity: LEDs have a much longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting, with many rated for 25,000 to 50,000 hours of use, or even more. This longevity reduces the frequency and cost of replacements.
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Environmental Impact: Because of their energy efficiency and longevity, LEDs are a more environmentally friendly option. They reduce a business's carbon footprint and can contribute towards sustainability goals.
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Quality of Light: LEDs provide high-quality, consistent light. They reach full brightness instantly, can be dimmed easily, and are available in a range of color temperatures. This can lead to improved conditions for employees and customers alike.
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Reduced Maintenance Costs: The longevity of LED lights also means less time and money spent on maintenance and replacing burnt-out bulbs.
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Safety: LEDs generate very little heat compared to incandescent bulbs, reducing the risk of fire and burn injuries. They are also made with better materials which are less likely to break and cause harm.
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Rebates and Incentives: As mentioned earlier, many utility companies and governments offer incentives and rebates to businesses that upgrade to energy-efficient lighting, which can help offset the initial investment cost.
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Improved Productivity: Some studies suggest that better quality lighting, like that from LEDs, can increase productivity in the workplace. Good lighting can reduce eye strain and increase comfort, potentially boosting employee morale and efficiency.
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Regulatory Compliance: In some regions, energy efficiency standards are becoming stricter, and businesses are required to use more efficient lighting systems. Upgrading to LED can help ensure compliance with these regulations.
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Enhanced Brand Image: Last but not least, being energy efficient and environmentally friendly can improve a business's public image. Customers are becoming increasingly conscious about the environmental practices of businesses, and upgrading to LED lighting is a visible and tangible step toward sustainability.
Investing in LED lighting can provide both short-term and long-term benefits for businesses of all sizes, across all sectors.
How to Upgrade to Commercial LED Lights (Free)
Choosing energy efficient lighting lets businesses control operating expenses and save money. LEDs are actually one of the most affordable types of commercial lights. In addition to the longest available lamp life (up to 50,000 hours), these lights use 25 to 80% less energy than traditional alternatives.
Upgrading to LED lighting doesn’t have to be an expensive change. Thanks to their energy efficiency ratings, using LED lights can help your business qualify for many grants and assistance programs.
Working with an LED lighting partner can make an LED upgrade even more affordable through Lighting-as-a-Service support models.
1. Lighting-as-a-Service ⭐️
Finding upgrade incentives, rebate programs and grants can be a full time job, and it’s easy to miss some savings. Small businesses are turning to Lighting-as-a-Service (LaaS) partners to upgrade to LED lights for zero upfront costs and additional savings every single month. The money you normally spend on lighting and energy can be reinvested in your business in growth opportunities that increase profitability.
By installing high-efficiency lighting systems with no initial investment, FES has saved our customers over $200 million. FES covers all the upfront costs to upgrade including design, manufacturing and installations. The energy savings are immediate for the business owner, and a portion of these savings pays for the lighting upgrade over time.
When you’re ready to update to LED lights, you can make the switch without spending a dime. By leveraging energy grants for small businesses and federal and local incentive programs, it’s possible to reduce the total cost for an upgrade. Working with a LaaS partner like FES ensures you’ll get a professionally designed LED lighting system with zero upfront costs and ongoing maintenance and support. The lifetime value of your system and the total cost savings are an important way to protect your bottom line.
Thinking your upgrade to LED lights? Find out how you can upgrade for $0 down.
2. Energy Efficiency Grants
Upgrading to LED lighting can help your business qualify for certain energy efficiency certifications, like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), which can enhance your company's reputation and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
Businesses can take advantage of energy efficiency grants to offset the cost of upgrading to LED lighting. Grants are non-repayable cash or products that are provided if your business meets the requirements. These energy efficiency grants for small businesses are often granted by government bodies but they can also be provided by:
- Educational institutions
- Corporations
- Groups or individuals
Don’t forget the value of shopping small! State grant programs often offer less competition than federal energy grants. It can be easier to qualify for these state-funded energy efficiency grants, but the overall dollar amount may be lower as well. Some grants may also require a company match equal to the donor’s contribution.
3. LED Incentive Programs
In addition to energy grants, small businesses can also leverage incentive programs to further reduce the cost of upgrading to LED lights. These programs typically won’t cover the entire cost of upgrading to LED lights, but they will help reduce your energy bills even further each month.
- Rebates: Federal, local and individual rebate programs provide small businesses with money back after making energy efficient upgrades.
- Tax Credits: When you upgrade to LED lights, your business can qualify for energy efficiency tax incentives. Deductions are available at a per square foot rate for buildings that meet certain energy efficiency requirements.
Energy Efficiency Programs: Utility companies often offer incentives to reduce consumption during peak hours. When paired with lower energy consumption due to LED lights, businesses can reduce their monthly bills even further. Other programs can also provide rewards for making energy efficient upgrades.
Where to find grants and incentives
You can maximize your total savings by combining grants and incentives from multiple sources.
- Search state and federal government grants here.
- Review this list of state and local funding options from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
- Find energy incentives by state here.
- See our list of 4 energy efficiency grants for small businesses.
Thinking your upgrade to LED lights? Find out how you can upgrade for $0 down.
