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Understanding Colorado’s New LED Lighting Mandate: House Bill 23-1161

Benjamin Lynch • October 31, 2024

What you need to know about Colorado's new lighting bill and how it may affect you.

Colorado Springs bridge at night with a view of the night lights, streetlamps, and cars passing by.

As energy efficiency becomes a greater priority, states like Colorado are taking bold steps to promote sustainability and reduce energy consumption. In May 2023, Colorado passed House Bill 23-1161, a pivotal piece of legislation mandating the use of LED lighting across the state. At Light of the World Electric (LOTW Electric), we’re committed to helping our clients navigate these changes and make the switch to LEDs as seamlessly as possible.

What is House Bill 23-1161?

House Bill 23-1161 is part of Colorado's broader environmental strategy to increase energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The bill mandates the installation of LED lighting in commercial and residential properties in Colorado and sets timelines for the phase-out of less efficient lighting, such as incandescent and fluorescent bulbs. This mandate applies to new constructions and renovations, which means that anyone planning upgrades or new builds must consider LED lighting to meet compliance standards.

The new law is part of Colorado’s broader Climate Action Plan, which aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve 100% clean energy by 2040. The intent is to keep our beautiful state beautiful for many generations to come. Switching to LED lighting is expected to play a significant role in achieving these targets, as LEDs consume significantly less power and last longer than traditional lighting solutions.

Garden of the Gods located in Colorado Springs, CO with the sun streaming light through the beautiful rocks onto the stunning landscape and greenery.

Why LED Lighting?

The choice of LED lighting isn’t just about energy savings—it’s about sustainability, performance, and long-term cost benefits. LED lights use about 75-80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. The benefits include:

Lower Energy Bills: By switching to LEDs, homes and businesses can reduce energy consumption, which translates into lower electricity bills.

Long Lifespan: LED bulbs often last up to 50,000 hours, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Reduced Carbon Footprint: Using less energy means a reduced demand on power plants, leading to lower carbon emissions and supporting Colorado’s environmental goals.

Better Lighting Quality: LEDs offer superior lighting quality, improving visual clarity and comfort in both residential and commercial settings.

A lightbulb that is an LED lightbulb surrounded by different colors of light.

How House Bill 23-1161 Affects Property Owners

Under the new legislation, property owners planning to build or remodel must prioritize LED lighting. This applies to all new construction projects, as well as renovations where 50% or more of the property is undergoing updates. While existing lighting can remain in buildings that aren’t undergoing significant renovations, the state strongly encourages all residents and business owners to switch to LEDs as soon as feasible.

To support this transition, the state has created a range of incentives and programs to offset costs associated with upgrading lighting systems. Utility companies in Colorado Springs, for example, are offering rebates for LED lighting installations , making it more affordable for homeowners and business owners alike to make the switch.

Getting Compliant with LOTW Electric

For property owners in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas, LOTW Electric is here to help. Our team of experienced electricians understands the ins and outs of House Bill 23-1161 and can provide comprehensive guidance on making your property compliant with Colorado’s LED mandate. Here’s how we can help:

Lighting Assessment: We assess your current lighting setup and identify the most efficient, compliant LED solutions for your home or business.

LED Installation: From retrofitting existing fixtures to installing brand-new LED systems, we ensure a smooth transition to energy-efficient lighting.

Rebates and Incentives: Our team is knowledgeable about the latest rebate programs available in Colorado Springs, helping you maximize savings on your LED installation.

Ongoing Support: With LOTW Electric, you’re never alone in your transition to LED. We offer ongoing support and maintenance to ensure your new lighting continues to perform at its best.

An airplane view of the city lights at night.

For more information on lighting options in your home or office space, check out our blog post on the psychology of light!

Colorado’s LED lighting mandate under House Bill 23-1161 represents a forward-thinking shift toward energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. At Light of the World Electric, we’re proud to support Colorado Springs’ residents and businesses in adopting sustainable lighting solutions. If you’re looking to upgrade to LED lighting, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way, from consultation to installation and beyond.

For more information on how House Bill 23-1161 impacts you or to schedule an LED lighting consultation, contact Light of the World Electric today. Let’s light the way to a brighter, more sustainable future together!

Garden of the Gods located in Colorado Springs, CO at night with the Milky Way in the night sky and the spotlight shining onto and lighting up the Kissing Camels rock formation.

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How Long Does A GFCI Outlet Last

By Benjamin Lynch • November 5, 2024

How Long Does a GFCI Outlet Last? Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters were likely installed in your home if it was built or remodeled after 1990. These devices protect you and your home from shock and fires. It is essential to check these devices on a regular basis to ensure they are working correctly. What is a GFCI Outlet? GFCI outlets are different from standard electrical outlets in that they protect you and your home from electrical shock. They do this by monitoring the electrical current and tripping when a surge is detected, thereby shutting off the electricity to the outlet. GFCIs are typically located in your garage, kitchen, bathrooms, and electrical panel. Testing Your GFCI Outlets GFCIs have a test and reset button, and this simple maintenance check needs to be performed regularly to ensure they are working correctly. In your electrical panel, they will also have a colored test button. You will simply press the test button to test these devices until you hear a click. Once you hear the click, you will reset the device by either pressing reset or turning the circuit breaker back on. If the breaker or device does not reset, the device is faulty, and you need to replace it with one that will function properly. How long does a GFCI outlet last before needing replacement? Most GFCI outlets will last 15-25 years without issue. However, if you have a faulty GFCI, you must replace it sooner. Some signs of a failing outlet are: The GFCI trips frequently The outlet is cracked or damaged Plugs fall out easily If you are experiencing any of these issues with your GFCI outlets, it’s time to get them replaced. Contact the licensed professionals at Light of the World Electric to handle your electrical needs.