CL&P Customers Can Exchange Halogen Torchiere Floor Lamps

DANBURY — Responding to popular demand, the Connecticut Light and Power Company (CL&P) is offering customers another opportunity to turn in their hazardous halogen torchiere floor lamps and receive new Energy Star® rated lamps, free of charge.

The latest Great Torchiere Turn-In began Thursday, December 7, at the former Big Party Store, located in Danbury off Exit 8 on Interstate 84. CL&P customers can exchange the dangerous lamps for a new compact fluorescent floor lamp valued at $40. The Energy Star-labeled models last up to seven years, use up to 85 percent less energy than halogen bulbs, and operate at cooler temperatures.

The 11-day event runs through Sunday, December 17. Customers may turn in their halogen torchiere lamps Monday through Saturday, from 10 am to 8 pm, and on Sundays, from 11 am to 5 pm.

The Danbury turn-in is the latest in a series of successful similar events earlier this year in Connecticut that have allowed customers to turn in thousands of lamps and purchase energy-efficient bulbs at discount prices, said Sharon Flannery, CL&P senior program administrator. “The turn-ins have proven to be a popular and excellent forum to educate the public about the dangers of the halogen bulbs and also how to save energy,” Ms Flannery said.

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reported that 530 fires involving halogen torchiere lamp bulbs have caused 36 deaths and 138 injuries since 1992. The CPSC said halogen bulbs can heat up to 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to ignite clothing, wood, and plastic.

Energy Star is a coordinated national effort of the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy to help consumers identify energy-saving products such as light fixtures, home electronics, office equipment, major appliances, and more.