The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) expects that its enLIGHTen America initiative will reach a wider audience in 2010 with its message about energy and costs savings through lighting renovation. Launched in August 2008, enLIGHTen America has primarily targeted executives in the building owner/operator markets. It provides tools and information on the advantages of upgrading old lighting products and systems.

"We have reached hundreds of thousands of people during our first year of operation, and our members think we are making a difference," said Ron Runkles, NEMA Lighting Industry Director. "In our second year, we plan to continue our focus on building management executives and also expand our message to reach contractors, distributors, and lighting maintenance companies. These are natural partners to help us grow lighting upgrade and renovation activity in the United States."

Lighting accounts for up to 40 percent of a building's energy use, and organizations that have upgraded have achieved rapid payback on their investment. EnLIGHTen America research has shown there are plans to upgrade the lighting in 41 percent of the nation's five million commercial, industrial and institutional buildings during the next year.

To learn more about enLIGHTen America, visit http://www.nemasavesenergy.org.

NEMA is the association of electrical and medical imaging equipment manufacturers. Founded in 1926 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., its approximately 450 member companies manufacture products used in the generation, transmission and distribution, control, and end use of electricity. These products are used in utility, industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential applications. The association’s Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) Division represents manufacturers of cutting-edge medical diagnostic imaging equipment including MRI, CT, x-ray, and ultrasound products. Worldwide sales of NEMA-scope products exceed $120 billion. In addition to its headquarters in Rosslyn, Virginia, NEMA also has offices in Beijing and Mexico City.