Saving power: Progress Energy, Home Depot to offer discounted energy-saving bulbs

RALEIGH, N.C. — Looking to save some money on your power bill?

Progress Energy and Home Depot are teaming up to offer a $1 discount on compact fluorescent light bulbs as part of a plan to reduce energy consumption.

The plan has been approved by the North Carolina Utilities Commission, and the discounts will start October 1 and last through December 30 or as long as supplies last.

The so-called CFL bulbs must meet “Energy Star” ratings.

Progress Energy expects as many as 200,000 bulbs will be sold.

The discounts are part of a plan by Progress Energy to help consumers and businesses reduce energy consumption/

"We're committed to energy efficiency and want to make it easy and cost- effective for our customers to use energy wisely," said Lloyd Yates, president and CEO - Progress Energy Carolinas. "This project will allow us to increase awareness and use of CFLs among our customers in the Carolinas."

CFLs use some 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and also can last up to 10 times longer.

Bulbs in 40-watt, 60-watt and 100-watt equivalents will be available.