Thorntons is saving approximately 62% on energy costs compared with traditional 320W metal halide fixtures, according to BetaLED. At each of the 13 convenient stores with gas, the LED luminaires will reduce carbon emissions by approximately 30% and eliminate disposal of mercury found in conventional lighting sources.
Gas [image-nocss] stations owners and operators are realizing that customers are drawn to their properties because of perceptions of cleanliness, safety and a friendly atmosphere. The use of LED lighting gives stations a brighter, more modern look compared to traditional high-intensity discharge (HID) sources. The long life and reliability of LED light sources diminish maintenance costs and help increase profits through reduced labor and relamping expenses, BetaLED said.
"BetaLED's superior technology, fixture quality and the dramatic decrease in utility costs we're already experiencing are making this a very smart decision," said Eric Zoph, Thorntons' vice president of construction and environmental concerns. "One of the biggest problems faced by owners is how to maintain light levels and make the facility feel inviting without wasting a lot of energy, these LED luminaires solve that problem."
According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), LEDs have an extremely long lifespan when compared to incandescent lightingin many cases they last 20 times longer. LEDs consume considerably less energy and are clean burning, thus reducing carbon emissions significantly. One of the greatest hurdles in using LEDs for general illumination is maximizing the lumens per watt produced. Advances in technology now make it possible to use high-efficiency LED lighting for commercial applications, said Sturtevant, Wis.-based BetaLED.
Louisville, Ky.-based Thorntons operates more than 150 c-stores in six states, serving major communities such as Nashville, Tenn.; Louisville; Chicago; Indianapolis and Evansville, Ind.; Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio; and New Haven, Conn.Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.