PORTLAND, Ore. — November 2, 2015 —Oregonians rely more on light bulbs to keep homes cozy and bright during the dark days and long nights of winter. Residents can replace their outdated incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting to save energy and money all season long, and Energy Trust of Oregon can help light the way to lower utility bills with a new online lighting tool.

In order to help customers navigate the lighting aisle more easily, Energy Trust designed an online tool to help customers buy the right bulbs for their fixtures. Whether at home or in the store, consumers can go to www.energytrust.org/lightbulb.

The interactive tool helps consumers pick the right ENERGY STAR® LED or compact fluorescent light bulb, CFL, for all of the rooms in their home. From pendant lights to bathroom vanities, the tool recommends the right bulb shape and lumens, a measure of brightness, to fit any fixture.

“New LEDs can illuminate your home with the same warm light as traditional lighting, while using less than a quarter of the energy,” said Lizzie Rubado, senior project manager, Energy Trust. “Shorter days are right around the corner, and LED lighting is steadily becoming more affordable, so this is a great time to make the switch and start saving money.”

Because lighting accounts for nearly 20 percent of a home’s electricity use, switching to energy-efficient light bulbs can be one of the most effective energy improvements for the home. One LED can use up to 85 percent less energy than a standard bulb and save up to $80 over its lifetime.

Energy-efficient LEDs and CFLs are available at discount prices at local retailers. Discounts are provided by Energy Trust and are automatically included in the shelf price, so shoppers do not need a coupon.

Energy Trust of Oregon is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to helping utility customers benefit from saving energy and generating renewable power. Our services, cash incentives and energy solutions have helped participating customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural and Cascade Natural Gas save $1.9 billion on energy bills. Our work helps keep energy costs as low as possible, creates jobs and builds a sustainable energy future. Learn more at www.energytrust.org or call 1-866-368-7878.