May 27 2008

Standing Room Only for LEDs

Published by Michelle Gorel under General Interest

Now that most of us have accepted that we need to do something to save energy, reduce greenhouse emissions and basically save the planet for future generations, “green iniatives” are popping up everywhere.  As much as everyone talks, of course there’s still much to be done and change isn’t always quick to come when there are sacrifices to be made.  Many CFO’s just can’t justify the money to “go green” when in the short run additional expense will negatively impact profits.

But what about when going green also produces a significant business ROI as well?  I was talking to Cary Eskow last week about a presentation he was giving to the investment community.  His topic? “On the Shoulders of Edison” – a view of the current state and future opportunities for solid-state lighting (SSL) using light emitting diode (LED) technology. Sounds pretty technical, but it was standing room only — not because they all want to save the planet, but because Cary focuses on the business application of LED lighting, which, oh by the way, also happens to benefit the planet by being more energy efficient.  He shared with me the example of a vending-machine company whose machines sport advertising panels on the top.  Highly visual, these panels are back-lit with florescent lighting which tends to burn out fairly quickly, prompting the need for someone to make a special trip to change the light bulbs or take time during a regular re-stocking trip to change the light bulb. For the cost of one service trip, the lighting can be switched out to LED bulbs that take far less energy and last the life of the vending machine. No more service trips. There’s a significant cost reduction that any CFO would love just from reducing the maintenance costs to keep that beautiful glow beckoning to you and I to quench our thirst.  My whole conversation with Cary was fascinating.  He was also telling me about how different-colored LED lighting in the operating room can help surgeons better identify the various body parts and be more accurate.  I’m not the expert here, obviously, but Cary can tell you more about where this industry is heading.

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