Arizona Community Implements Energy Saving Program Resulting in Significant Decrease in Costs

July 9, 2010 - PRLog -- After implementation of the first phase of a long-range program to make the community of Vistancia in Peoria, Ariz., more energy-efficient, the master plan has experienced a 31 percent cost savings in just six months.

The first phase called for the retrofitting of all 95 existing landscape lighting fixtures, which use 50-watt halogen bulbs, with nine-watt compact fluorescent bulbs. The lighted water feature at Vistancia’s entrance alone resulted in an energy cost savings of $2,000.

“The savings does not even take into consideration the longevity of compact fluorescent bulbs versus conventional halogen lighting,” said Michael L. Brooks, director of maintenance for Capital Consultants Management Corporation (CCMC), the company that manages Vistancia, who spearheaded the program.

“As well as the cost savings, the dramatically reduced heat radiation of these new devices is an impressive side benefit,” he added.

Phase two of the program is currently underway on the lighting along the community’s 3.5-mile Discovery Trail, a linear park that bisects Vistancia and links neighborhoods with amenities and retail, and on the grounds of the community’s Mountain Vista Club.

One hundred seventy-two, high-pressure sodium 100-watt bulbs are being replaced with 23-watt compact fluorescent bulbs.

“This will result in another 77 percent energy savings while delivering the same illumination,” Brooks added.

Vistancia’s Director of Marketing Sandy Esmay pointed out that the 7,100-acre community is always looking for green solutions to lower energy costs and to remain in harmony with the desert surroundings.

For example, Vistancia is a dark sky community utilizing low-level outdoor lighting that preserves the natural night sky.

“We have also introduced a ladybug release project as an eco-friendly way to control aphids and other garden pests,” she explained, adding that each year classes from Vistancia’s two elementary schools are invited to participate in the release. “At an early age, they learn the benefits of organic gardening techniques that are gentle on the environment.”

To learn more about the community, visit www.vistancia.com. For information on CCMC, visit www.ccmcnet.com.