What is Lights Out @ Office?
Lights Out is a national program with more than 32 participating cities. Hampton Roads is launching the voluntary Lights Out @ Office in fall of 2022. We are asking property manager, business, tenant, government agency, and residents to turn off lights during the spring bird migration from March 15 to May 31 and the fall migration from August 15 to November 15 to help save birds, save energy, and save money. Simply turn off your lights between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Are other cities participating?
Nationally, cities including Washington DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston have Lights Out programs. Regionally, participating cities include Raleigh, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte.
Will this cost me money?
No, this is a free program, and you will save money! By turning off lights, you will be lowering your energy usage and saving money on your electric bill.
What kind of energy and cost savings will I receive?
Turning lights off will save energy and money but the exact amount will vary based on the number and intensity of lights you have and the specifics of your lighting. One participating municipal building in the Toronto Lights Out program reported cost savings of more than $200,000 per year.(1)
Do I need to turn off all my interior lights?
No, however please turn off unnecessary and unused lighting, especially those that are closest to windows, from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. or use task lighting. If you are unable to turn off interior lights, draw window blinds, shades, drapes, or window coverings.
Can I do more?
Turning off the lights is the easiest way to make a difference. Additional steps you can take to protect birds includes placing bird safety decals on exterior windows to minimize the risk of daytime bird crashes and switching to warmer lights, e.g. "warm white", when selecting LED lighting fixtures.
https://www.nycaudubon.org/take-action/make-nyc-bird-friendly/make-your-windows-bird-friendly
https://www.fws.gov/story/threats-birds-collisions-nighttime-lighting
https://www.nycaudubon.org/take-action/make-nyc-bird-friendly/make-your-windows-bird-friendly
How do I participate?
Sign up at https://birdsafehr.blogspot.com/p/lights-out-office.html