How the Clean Lighting Act in Colorado Impacts Commercial Properties & Why LED Upgrades are the Smart Choice

The Clean Lighting Act is transforming lighting standards across Colorado, marking a major shift in commercial building regulations. Signed into law as part of Colorado’s broader sustainability goals,
this legislation requires commercial properties to phase out inefficient fluorescent lighting in favor of eco-friendly, energy-efficient LED alternatives. If you’re a building owner or facility manager,
now is the time to get ahead of the curve, ensure compliance, and benefit from the operational efficiencies LED lighting brings.

 

What is the Clean Lighting Act?

The Clean Lighting Act prohibits the sale, manufacturing and distribution of compact fluorescent lamp or linear fluorescent lamp on and after January 1, 2025. The goal is simple yet impactful: to reduce Colorado’s carbon footprint, cut down on hazardous waste, and promote energy savings statewide.

 

Why Colorado is Banning Fluorescent Lighting

Fluorescent lighting has long been the go-to for commercial spaces due to its cost-effectiveness. However, it comes with significant drawbacks, both environmental and operational:

Mercury Content: Fluorescent lights contain mercury, a toxic heavy metal that is dangerous to human health and the environment if disposed of improperly.

Energy Inefficiency: Fluorescent lights consume far more electricity than LEDs, driving up utility costs and contributing to higher emissions.

Shorter Lifespan: On average, fluorescent tubes last around 15,000 hours, while LED lights can last up to 50,000 hours, meaning more replacements and maintenance with fluorescent options.

This legislation aligns with the broader green initiative to replace toxic, energy-draining lighting with safe, efficient LEDs.

 

What This Means for Commercial Property Owners

The transition is more than the environmental benefits; what happens when a light goes out and you can’t find a replacement? How would that affect your business operations?
Upgrading your lighting to LEDs can provide an opportunity to reap benefits beyond compliance and the environment.

LED Benefits at a Glance:

• Energy Savings: LEDs use up to 75% less electricity than fluorescent lighting, making a noticeable difference in your utility bills.
• Long-Term Cost Savings: With a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, LEDs reduce replacement frequency and lower maintenance costs.
• Improved Lighting Quality: LEDs offer brighter, more consistent illumination, improving visibility and potentially boosting employee productivity in workspaces.

 

Steps to Achieve Compliance and Optimize Your Lighting

The process of replacing your building’s fluorescent lights may seem daunting, but with a clear plan, it’s manageable and beneficial. Here’s how to ensure you’re compliant and enjoy the full advantages of LED lighting.

 

Step 1: Assess Your Current Lighting System

Conduct a thorough lighting audit to understand which areas still use fluorescent lights. This will help you prioritize and plan the switch efficiently. Partnering with a lighting professional can provide deeper insights into specific energy-saving opportunities within your building.

Step 2: Choose the Right LED Lighting Solutions

Not all LEDs are created equal, and commercial settings often have unique lighting needs. When selecting LED lights, consider factors like brightness, color temperature, and fixture compatibility. Many LED products can mimic natural daylight, enhancing visibility and providing a more inviting environment.

Step 3: Plan the Installation

Work with an experienced team to plan the installation for minimal disruption to your daily operations. Ideally, installations can be scheduled during off-hours or low-traffic times to ensure smooth business continuity.

Step 4: Dispose of Fluorescent Lights Safely

Because fluorescent lights contain mercury, they need to be disposed of according to hazardous waste regulations. Many lighting service providers will handle disposal safely as part of their service, ensuring you meet both state and federal guidelines for hazardous materials.

 

Why Choose Ervinas Facilities for Your LED Upgrade?

At Ervinas Facilities, we specialize in facility and project management services that ensure your building operates optimally, efficiently, and in compliance with current regulations. Our team can handle every step of your lighting upgrade, from assessment and planning to installation and safe disposal of old fluorescent tubes.

Our LED Upgrade Services Include:

• Comprehensive Lighting Assessments: We evaluate your current lighting system to determine the best LED solutions for your needs.
• Expert Installation: Our team installs LED fixtures efficiently and safely, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Safe disposal of old fluorescent lamps.
• Long-Term Partnership: Beyond installation, we provide ongoing maintenance and support to keep your facility’s lighting system performing at its best.

 

Looking Ahead: LED Lighting as a Smart Investment

Transitioning to LED lighting under the Clean Lighting Act doesn’t just ensure compliance; it’s a sound investment in your property’s future. LEDs reduce energy consumption, cut operational costs, and support Colorado’s environmental goals, making it a win-win for everyone involved.

If you’re ready to make the switch, contact Ervinas Facilities for a no-obligation assessment of your facility’s lighting needs. We’re here to support you in making the transition smoothly and sustainably.