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BPA Helps Tribe Switch to CFLs by Staff BPA Journal, July 2009

It's a first in the nation. Every single light bulb on the Burns Paiute Reservation near Burns, Ore., is taking the shape of the familiar compact fl uorescent twist as tribal members visit each household in a "change a light, change the world" effort.

BPA's Energy Efficiency program is funding the project, because CFLs have proven to be one of the most effective ways people can reduce electricity use in their homes. These lights last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs and use 75 percent less energy.

"The Burns Paiute tribe is proud to lead the way in this green effort," said Acting Tribal General Manager Kenton Dick. "We appreciate all the benefits of this program, from the cash savings it brings to the members of our tribe, to the stewardship it provides to our planet. This is a story with a happy ending for all involved."

The reservation has 60 homes. With the other facilities, that equals about 1,200 bulbs. BPA partnered with Portland Energy Conservation, Inc., to train installers on numerous aspects of the project, including answering tribal members' questions.