Achieving market acceptance of new technology is one of the biggest challenges start-ups can face. It is no different for getting the general public to accept LEDs, the most energy-efficient lights on the market. The
Energy Reduction Coalition is working to do just that.
The Troy-based non-profit is working to help companies and governments transition to the more energy-efficient bulb by taking the risk out of it. Adoption of LED lights can lead to savings in excess of half of electricity costs. However, making that transition comes with large up-front costs and the people who make those sorts of decisions are often reticent to be among the first to do so.
The Energy Reduction Coalition aims to help make that transition easier by taking on the risk and making the projects happen. It does the analysis of changing to LEDs, installs them, standardizes the process of replacing them, and provides a return guarantee if the cost savings don't materialize.
"I make it really simple for them," says Carl Walsh, founder of the Energy Reduction Coalition.
The Energy Reduction Coalition is a non-profit because it makes it easier for customers to trust that a non-profit focused on sustainability wants to help them. So far it is working with a handful of local companies and municipalities to make the switch to LEDs.
"In 2013, we're hoping to make a big difference," Walsh says.
Source: Carl Walsh, founder of the Energy Reduction Coalition
Writer: Jon Zemke
Read more about Metro Detroit's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem at SEMichiganStartup.com.
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