The Foundation's lighting programs continue to assist Illinois communities improve lighting quality and lower utility bills by the simple act of replacing old light fixtures with high efficiency bulbs and ballasts. Over 4,000 buildings have been upgraded, leading to electricity demand savings of over 130 megawatts.

For 2014, the Foundation is introducing a new incentive and format methodology for Energy Efficiency Lighting Grants.

The new format and incentive structure provides:

• A fixed incentive rate of $0.15 cents per Kilowatt-Hour (KWh) projected to be saved in the first year or 40% of the total project cost whichever is less. The new incentive rewards reduced energy consumption as opposed to reduced installed capacity.
   
• Open eligibility to ALL Units of Local Government and federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Applicants served by past Foundation lighting programs would regain FULL eligibility subject to available annual funding (i.e., K-12 Schools, Colleges & Universities, Park Districts, Public Libraries and Child Care Centers)
   
• Outdoor lighting improvements related to Building Property Use will continue to be eligible for funding. (funding for outdoor systems began with the Foundation's September 2013 application cycle)