Just one more way we're helping you go green.

At Santee Cooper, our company's mission is to be the state's leading resource for improving the quality of life for the people of South Carolina. One of the chief ways we do that is by protecting our environment - which we've been dedicated to for over 40 years with more than 23 programs. Our latest effort in this quest is the conservation of energy through the use of Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs).

There are many benefits to CFLs

• Use up to 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs
• Last up to 10 times longer
• Save about $30 or more in electricity costs over each bulb's lifetime
• Produce about 75 percent less heat, so they can cut energy costs associated with home cooling
• Are available in different sizes and shapes to fit in almost any fixture

Switch to Compact Fluorescent Lights

By switching your most frequently used bulbs to CFLs, you can really save. Take the time to replace the fixtures in your home that are on for up to three hours or more each day. Most of this type of lighting is found in kitchens, living rooms and outdoors.

When you go to make the switch to CFLs there are a few things you want to keep in mind.

CFLs are available in many different lighting options. Today's CFL is much different than those manufactured in the past. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit all of the fixtures in your home. There are even CFLs that work in three-way lamps, dimmer switches, recessed cans and outdoor fixtures. Look for these specially marked packages in your local store.

CFLs require less wattage than an incandescent bulb. See the chart to the right to make sure you are purchasing the correct light output for your fixtures at home. Most CFL packages have this conversion information printed on them as well.

CFLs have varying color temperature. Whether you're looking for warm or cool light, you can find both in a CFL. People who like the color of light emitted from an incandescent bulb usually prefer warm light. Warm light is especially preferred in bedrooms, dining rooms and living rooms. Cool light is a brighter, cleaner light most associated with kitchens and bathrooms. Make sure to note whether you are purchasing cool or warm temperature bulbs when purchasing CFLs.