Is Your Lighting Hurting Your Bottom Line?
November 2, 2022
Inflation has soared, especially in energy costs. Labor pool difficulties continue. All this and more add up to a challenging environment for turning a profit. But is the lighting at your business making it even more of a challenge? And are there investments you can make that will ease these problems now and for years to come?
Let’s review some potential lighting problems and moves you can make to eliminate them, and their drag on your bottom line.
Poorly Lit Manufacturing Can Reduce Productivity and Increase Rework
It’s just common sense that workers who see better will turn out better work, but this is far more complex than just turning up the light level. In fact, overly bright lighting is a big part of the problem in many facilities. This, plus glare, eyestrain, and lighting that is the wrong color, can all lead to lower productivity and diminished quality.
- Most workplaces have lighting at least twice as bright as OSHA recommends. Instead of depending on high output overhead lighting, reduce overall brightness and use task and accent lighting. This gives workers softer illumination, and control over how much illumination to use.
- Use lighting in the cool white range, with a color temperature of 4000 to 5000K. This is not only the best for detail work but works well with the circadian rhythm of workers and is available in a wide range of lighting options.
- Eliminate other sources of glare. Glossy furniture, paint, flooring, fixtures, and equipment can all produce glare, and should be toned down.
- Choose LED lighting if you haven’t already converted. It uses less energy and lasts longer than other types, allowing you to light the same area at a much lower overall cost.
Starkly Lit Hospitality Environments Can Kill the Vibe – and Your Profits
Lighting design is crucial to ambience, and not only do 91% of diners say ambience plays a role in their choice of restaurant, 20% say it is their top concern. You can be sure ambience and atmosphere are important to hotel guests and other customers across the spectrum of hospitality businesses. An unwelcoming environment can reduce the length of time guests stay, the dollars they spend, and the likelihood of repeat business.
- Consider the color of light. The most welcoming range, especially in restaurants, is the warm white range of around 2500 to 3000K. This light is similar to candlelight in color, and you shouldn’t stray too much higher—where the light begins to resemble fluorescent tubes—or any lower. Below 2500, the light begins to be very yellow.
- Consider the color of surroundings and lean toward indirect lighting. Lighter colors in a space allow you to use indirect lighting, which tends to seem far less harsh to the guest than the same wattage of direct lighting.
- Work on eliminating glare and “industrial” lighting. One mistake that’s often made in hotels and motels is to use fluorescent ceiling lights or other fixtures that remind guests of office or industrial lighting. Replace these with LED indirect lights where possible.
- Keep an eye out for highly reflective items that may produce harsh glare, from glossy menus to glass. Using indirect lighting reduces this problem as well.
Poor Office Lighting Can Make Your Employees Wish They Worked Remote Again
Office lighting is more complex than it seems, but a little attention can pay off handsomely.
- Survey your facility and look for lights that are burned out or mismatched. The simple fact that the lighting looks shipshape can change a worker or customer’s subconscious perception.
- Consider circadian rhythm. Light has an important role in our waking and sleeping cycles, and the wrong lighting can actually make your workers less productive and less likely to get satisfying sleep at home. Daylight is the best light for this purpose, so let natural light in where you can. Where it isn’t available, choose fixtures that are in the cool white or daylight range, which both have the same effect on circadian rhythm as daylight.
- Take action to reduce glare. Consider what light is coming from where at what times and what surfaces it might be reflecting form. This is especially important in offices, where most workers already encounter eyestrain risk from screen use.
Could you use some advice on the what, why, and how of how you can improve your lighting and your bottom line? We have experts on hand who are ready to help. Get in touch with Thayer Energy Solutions at 815-282-1112 today, and together we’ll find the best options for your situation.
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As electric vehicle (EV) adoption surges across the Midwest, businesses in Illinois and Wisconsin are taking advantage of valuable incentives to install commercial EV charging stations. Great news for companies in the region: substantial rebates and incentives remain available for electric vehicle charging station sales and installations starting January 1, 2026. These programs, including ComEd's make-ready infrastructure rebates in Illinois, operate on a first-come, first-served basis—so prompt action is essential to secure the funding. At Thayer Energy Solutions, your premier commercial EV charging station installation and sales company headquartered in Rockford, IL, we proudly serve businesses throughout Illinois and Wisconsin. From Chicago and its suburbs to Rockford, Milwaukee, Madison, and beyond, our team delivers expert solutions for Level 2 and DC fast chargers. Whether you're a business owner, fleet operator, retail center manager, or property owner looking to attract EV-driving customers and employees, these incentives can dramatically reduce your costs. Let's explore the details and how we can help you capitalize on them. Key 2026 EV Charging Incentives for Illinois Businesses In Illinois, particularly in the ComEd service territory (covering northern Illinois including Chicago, Rockford, and surrounding areas), the EV Make-Ready Rebate Program supports commercial and public sector installations by covering infrastructure preparation costs—such as electrical upgrades on both the customer and utility sides of the meter. These rebates apply once chargers are operational. Level 2 EV Charger Incentives Level 2 chargers are perfect for workplaces, offices, apartments, hotels, retail locations, and fleets needing reliable, faster charging. ● Rebate Amount: Up to $5,333 per port (base); potentially higher (up to $8,000 per port) for qualifying low-income, equity investment eligible communities (EIEC), or environmental justice areas. ● Details: Maximum of 10 ports per project. ● Why It Matters: This can offset a major portion of installation expenses, enabling multi-port setups to serve more users and enhance your business's sustainability appeal. DC Fast Charger Incentives For high-traffic sites like convenience stores, travel centers, logistics hubs, or fleet depots, DC fast chargers deliver quick turnaround charging. ● Rebate Amount: Up to $667 per kW (base); up to $1,000 per kW in qualifying equity or low-income areas. ● Details: Minimum 50 kW output per charger; maximum rebate $500,000 per site. ● Why It Matters: These rebates significantly lower the barrier for high-power installations critical for supporting long-haul travel and commercial fleets. Additionally, stack these with the federal 30C Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit (up to 30% of costs, capped at $100,000 per station, available through June 30, 2026) for maximum savings. These Illinois EV charging incentives are first-come, first-served and funded under programs like the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act—demand is high, so funds can deplete quickly. Opportunities for Wisconsin Businesses In Wisconsin, utilities like We Energies offer pilot programs and incentives to support commercial EV charging infrastructure, including credits for utility upgrades and potential rebates for on-site electrical work. These help offset costs for installing chargers at businesses, fleets, employee parking, or public-facing locations. Combined with federal tax credits, Wisconsin companies can achieve substantial savings while building EV-ready facilities. Thayer Energy Solutions serves Wisconsin businesses comprehensively, ensuring your project qualifies for available utility programs and federal incentives. Partner with Thayer Energy Solutions to Maximize Your Savings Based in Rockford, IL, and serving Illinois and Wisconsin, Thayer Energy Solutions provides full-service support for commercial EV charging projects. We handle: ● Equipment Sales: High-quality Level 2 and DC fast chargers from trusted brands, built for Midwest durability. ● Full Turnkey Installation: From site evaluation and permitting to electrical upgrades, installation, and activation—we manage it all. ● Incentive Assistance: We guide you through applications for ComEd rebates (in Illinois), utility programs (in Wisconsin), and federal credits to secure funding before it's gone. ● Tailored Midwest Solutions: Our installations withstand harsh winters, feature smart energy management, and include remote monitoring for efficiency. By choosing Thayer Energy Solutions, you invest in a future-proof asset that boosts property appeal, supports sustainability goals, attracts customers, and lowers long-term energy costs. Why Act Now? These First-Come, First-Served Incentives Won't Last With EV registrations rising rapidly in Illinois and Wisconsin, infrastructure demand is exploding. Past funding rounds filled quickly, leaving late applicants without rebates. Don't miss out—combine state/utility incentives with federal credits for the best returns. Installing commercial EV chargers positions your business as a forward-thinking leader in the Midwest's green transition. Contact Thayer Energy Solutions Today Ready to electrify your Illinois or Wisconsin property? Call or email Nicole at Thayer Energy Solutions now to review your project, confirm eligibility, and apply for incentives before they run out. We're your local experts—serving Rockford, Chicago, Milwaukee, and the entire Midwest with professional, reliable EV charging solutions. ● Phone: 815-242-6450 ● Email: nicole@thayerenergysolutions.com ● Website: www.thayerenergysolutions.com Secure your 2026 EV charging incentives in Illinois and Wisconsin today—contact us and let's power a sustainable future together!
As of January 2026, Illinois has begun phasing out fluorescent lighting with the Clean Lighting Act, starting with a ban on screw-base and bayonet-base compact fluorescent lamps. But the clock is ticking louder for businesses relying on linear fluorescent tubes – all sales and distribution will be prohibited after December 31, 2026. This means that by 2027, finding replacements for your outdated fluorescent bulbs will become nearly impossible. For Illinois companies, now is the critical time to act on LED lighting retrofits to avoid disruptions, comply with new regulations, and unlock substantial savings. At Thayer Energy Solutions, we specialize in commercial LED lighting installations and retrofits for businesses in the Rockford, IL, and Stateline area. Our expert team helps you transition seamlessly to energy-efficient LED systems, reducing operating costs while enhancing your facility's performance. Don't wait until supplies dwindle – convert to LED lighting today and take full advantage of available incentives before they're gone. Understanding the Illinois Fluorescent Bulb Ban: What It Means for Your Business Illinois is joining a growing number of states in banning mercury-containing fluorescent bulbs to promote environmental safety and energy efficiency. The partial ban, effective January 1, 2026, targets compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) with screw or bayonet bases. However, the full impact hits in 2027, when pin-base CFLs and linear fluorescent tubes – the workhorses of commercial lighting in offices, warehouses, retail spaces, and factories – will no longer be sold or distributed. This isn't just a regulatory change; it's a wake-up call for businesses still using outdated fluorescent lighting. Stockpiling bulbs isn't a long-term solution, as they'll eventually burn out, leaving you scrambling for alternatives. Switching to LED lighting retrofits in Illinois now ensures compliance, avoids future headaches, and positions your business for long-term energy savings. Why Now? The Urgent Case for LED Lighting Conversion in Illinois Procrastinating on your LED upgrade could cost you dearly. With the fluorescent bulb ban in Illinois looming, prices for remaining stock may spike, and availability will plummet. But beyond avoidance, converting to LED lighting offers immediate and lasting benefits that directly impact your bottom line. Massive Savings on Utilities and Maintenance LED lighting uses up to 75% less energy than fluorescent bulbs, slashing your utility bills significantly. For a typical commercial space, this translates to thousands in annual savings. Plus, LEDs last 25 times longer, reducing replacement and maintenance costs. At Thayer Energy Solutions, we calculate your projected ROI during our free consultations, showing how LED retrofits pay for themselves quickly through energy efficiency. Better Lighting Leads to Better Production Poor lighting from aging fluorescent bulbs can hinder visibility, leading to slower workflows and reduced output. LED lighting provides brighter, more consistent illumination with better color rendering, helping employees spot details faster and work more efficiently. Businesses in manufacturing, warehousing, and retail see noticeable productivity boosts after upgrading to LED systems tailored by experts like Thayer Energy Solutions. Fewer Accidents and Safer Work Environments Dim or flickering fluorescent lights increase the risk of slips, trips, and errors. High-quality LED lighting eliminates these issues, creating safer spaces that comply with OSHA standards. Studies show that improved lighting can reduce workplace accidents by up to 60%, protecting your team and minimizing liability. Improved Employee Morale and Well-Being Harsh fluorescent lighting often causes eye strain, headaches, and fatigue, dragging down morale. LEDs offer natural, flicker-free light that mimics daylight, fostering a more comfortable and motivating atmosphere. Happier employees mean lower turnover and higher engagement – a win for any Illinois business. Seize the Great Incentive Opportunities for LED Retrofits in Illinois Right now, Illinois offers fantastic incentives to make your LED lighting upgrade even more affordable. Utilities like Ameren Illinois and ComEd provide rebates for interior and exterior LED projects, including networked controls that further optimize energy use. Small businesses can also access grants up to $1,500 through programs like the Illinois Green Business Association's energy efficiency rebates, covering LED upgrades and more – but these funds are limited and first-come, first-served. Thayer Energy Solutions handles all the paperwork, incorporating every available rebate and incentive into your project. Whether you're in Rockford or the surrounding areas, our turnkey LED retrofit services ensure you maximize savings while getting industry-leading products and professional installation. Take Advantage of This Opportunity Before It's Too Late The Illinois fluorescent bulb ban after December 31, 2026, is a clear signal: the era of inefficient lighting is ending. By partnering with Thayer Energy Solutions for your LED lighting retrofit, you'll future-proof your business, cut costs, and enhance operations. Don't let time run out – contact us today while LED incentives are still available. Thayer Energy Solutions 815.282.1112 thayerenergysolutions.com Ready to brighten your future? Reach out to Patti Thayer for a no-obligation assessment and start saving with energy-efficient LED lighting in Illinois.
Why Buying Local Matters When it comes to energy efficiency upgrades for your commercial or industrial property, choosing a local partner makes all the difference. Thayer Energy Solutions, with 37 years of trusted experience, is your go-to expert for energy-smart upgrades, utility savings, and reliable service. Serving over 200 million square feet of projects, Thayer delivers proven performance, award-winning service, and a commitment to your community. Before you buy from an out-of-town provider, ask yourself: Why take a chance when you can buy local? Discover why Thayer Energy Solutions is the smart choice for your energy needs. Why Choose Thayer Energy Solutions? 1. 37 Years of Proven Expertise With nearly four decades in the industry, Thayer Energy Solutions has built a reputation for excellence. Our extensive experience spans commercial and industrial energy projects , delivering tailored solutions that maximize efficiency and reduce costs. From lighting upgrades to EV charging station installations , we’ve done it all—and done it right. 2. Comprehensive Energy Services Thayer offers a full suite of energy-saving services designed to meet your needs: EV Charging Stations: Sales & Certified Installation: As electric vehicles become the future, Thayer provides ICC-certified EV charging station installations , ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient setups for your business. Our local team guarantees quality and accountability, unlike out-of-town providers. Utility Rate Management for Electric & Gas: Save on your utility bills with our expert utility rate management services. We analyze and optimize your electric and gas rates, helping you reduce costs without sacrificing performance. Lighting Upgrades & Retrofits: Upgrade your interior and exterior lighting with energy-efficient solutions, including advanced controls for maximum savings. Our retrofits are designed to enhance aesthetics, improve functionality, and lower energy consumption. 3. Award-Winning, Locally Trusted Service Thayer Energy Solutions is proud to be locally and nationally recognized for our exceptional service. Our commitment to quality has earned us accolades, but more importantly, it’s earned us the trust of businesses across the region. When you work with Thayer, you’re partnering with a company that’s invested in your community. 4. ICC Certification & Reliability Before you choose an out-of-town provider, ask: Are they ICC certified? Will they be there when something goes wrong? Thayer is ICC certified, ensuring compliance with the highest industry standards. Our local presence means we’re always here to support you, from installation to maintenance. Don’t risk working with a company you can’t hold accountable. 5. Support Your Community When you buy local from Thayer Energy Solutions, you’re investing in your community. We’re not just a service provider; we’re your neighbors, committed to fostering local growth and sustainability. Out-of-town companies may not care about your community’s future—Thayer does. The Risks of Buying Out-of-Town Choosing an out-of-town provider can lead to costly mistakes. Without local accountability, you may face: Unreliable service or support Non-certified installations that fail to meet regulations Lack of community investment Difficulty resolving issues post-installation With Thayer, you get peace of mind knowing we’re here for the long haul, ready to stand by our work. Don’t be the one who should have bought local! Take Advantage of Our Free Lighting Assessment Ready to start saving? Thayer Energy Solutions offers a FREE lighting assessment to evaluate your current setup and recommend energy-efficient upgrades tailored to your needs. This no-obligation assessment is the first step toward reducing your energy costs and enhancing your property’s performance. Contact Thayer Energy Solutions today at 815.282.1112 or visit thayerenergysolutions.com to schedule your free lighting assessment. Don’t wait—start saving with a trusted local partner! Conclusion: Buy Smart, Buy Proven, Buy Thayer When it comes to energy efficiency, Thayer Energy Solutions is the clear choice. With 37 years of experience, award-winning service , and a commitment to your community, we deliver results you can trust. From EV charging stations to lighting retrofits and utility rate management , Thayer has the expertise to make your business more efficient and cost-effective. Buy local, buy proven, buy Thayer Energy Solutions. Contact Us Today: Call 815.282.1112 or visit thayerenergysolutions.com to learn more about our services and schedule your free lighting assessment. Let’s make your business energy-smart together!
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