Ford Changes Light Bulbs

It's all about green these days with auto makers, but as we have learned in some two years or so, green can be achieved with more than just building eco-vehicles. Driven by the same need to cut cost (cleverly covered under the “saving the planet” catch phrase), most manufacturers have already revealed plans to turn their facilities into hubs of green.

And, since auto makers are among the largest operators of manufacturing plants in the world, their efforts might count for something after all, regardless of the reason.

Ford, one of the auto makers that have been left behind by the green endeavors of say GM, announced today that it (and we quote) came up with a bright idea. Literally. An idea which involves changing 50,000 light fixtures at its Land Energy Efficiency and Supply Office. An idea which, in theory, will help Ford rid the planet of 11,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions and save it $1.3 million each year.

“We are continuously taking steps to make sure we’re current with the technologies that offer us reduced energy consumption, along with a cost savings for the type of space,” said Gary Jensen, manager of energy efficiency. “This project helps the environment, reduces demand on the grid and brings bottom line savings for Ford, too.”

The auto maker promises that the effort to change so many light bulbs will not end here and will continue with similar measures to be taken at office buildings, test facilities, a test warehouse and a vehicle proving ground, both on the inside and on the outside.