FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 23, 2008
CONTACT: Tony Benson
Communications Coordinator
507-280-1534
tbenson@rpu.org

RPU Launches New CFL Recycling Program


ROCHESTER, MN--- Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) announces a new recycling program for residential customers to recycle compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) for free at the Olmsted County Hazardous Waste Facility. CFLs are often spiral shaped bulbs that are designed to replace a standard incandescent light bulb. CFL recycling is necessary because of the small amount of mercury in each bulb.

RPU promotes the purchase and use of CFLs through the Conserve & Save Rebate Program, by offering a rebate of 50 percent of the cost of the bulbs to residential customers. CFLs use one third of the energy and last up to 10 times longer than standard incandescent light bulbs. In 2007, RPU gave rebates to customers on over 12,000 CFL bulbs. Olmsted County will bill RPU up to $5,000 for recycling and handling services for the CFL recycling program in 2008.

“Working with our customers to conserve energy is a top priority for us, and now with the addition of the CFL recycling program, we are able to increase efforts to work with our customers to save energy and to make the right decisions to help the environment,” said Larry Koshire, RPU General Manager.

The Olmsted County Hazardous Waste Facility is located at 305 Silver Creek Road NE, Rochester, MN 55906.

The RPU Service Center is not a drop off site for CFL recycling due to safety concerns.
Click for more information on CFLs or on the CFL recycling program.

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 45,000 customers. Water customers number more than 34,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include fuel cell research, wind power, and photovoltaic offerings.