Wondering how much you can save through using CFLs instead of traditional incandescent light bulbs?
Check out the CFL Savings Calculator created by the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Star program. Not only does this tool show you the life cycle cost savings from using CFLs over incandescent bulbs, it also gives you that savings in terms of CO2 emission reductions -- letting you know exactly how you're helping the environment while putting money back in your pocketbook.
And when putting values into the savings calculator, remember that you can discount the unit price on CFL bulbs based on the savings you can receive through the Illinois utility energy efficiency programs -- as much as $1 to $2 on a standard residential-use bulb.
(note -- users need Microsoft Excel to work the CFL Savings Calculator)
