The effect of efficient lighting on the environment: pilot project in Palestine

Abstract

In this paper, we present the results and experience gained through the Energy Conservation Pilot Project in the Town of Salfeet/Palestine. Also, we describe five case studies of energy-efficient programs in five countries—Mexico, China, Philippines, Poland and Vietnam. The project was funded by the UNDP/GEF and executed within the framework of the cooperation between An-Najah National University, the UNDP/GEF, and Salfeet Municipality. The project aims mainly to draw the public attention towards the importance of energy conservation in reducing pollution as well as running cost. In fact, a major component of the project was the replacement of the incandescent lamps for about 40% of the residents of Salfeet (626 families), the 40–100 W lamps were replaced by 18 W compact florescent lamps (CFL). Each benefited family was given three to five CFL free of charge depending on number of persons per family. It is found that the total energy saved because of lamp-replacement in Salfeet is about 5,000 kWh/month, and the total emission saved of CO2 is about 5,792 kg as coal is burnt to generate electricity. Furthermore, the project has improved public awareness about energy conservation concepts and their positive impact on local and global climate changes.