In the 1990s, many California cities and counties performed lighting retrofits to replace T12 fluorescent lamps with T8 lamps, saving thousands of dollars in energy bills. Many of those T8 systems are now outdated and reaching the end of their lives. ABAG Energy Watch can assist in retrofitting with third generation T8 lamps and efficient electronic ballasts, which can reduce energy use by an additional 20 percent.

Since 2005, the ABAG team has identified lighting improvements for over 1,350,000 square feet of building space operated by Contra Costa County. With our assistance, the County implemented retrofits at two large health centers and two County detention facilities, and plans retrofits for 10 more buildings, for a total savings of $200,000 per year. The County is very pleased with the energy savings and improved lighting quality and plans to work with ABAG Energy Watch to continue to retrofit more facilities.