ComEd's energy doctor was showing off the energy bike which demonstrated the energy required to light conventional light blubs versus compact fluorescent light blubs.
Also a 3-foot tall, compact fluorescent light bulb shaped topiary tree was planted.
The topiary is also part of the "Gardens of the Magificent Mile."
ABC7 is one of the sponsors of the gardens.
Official ComEd News Release
In partnership with the Greater North Michigan Avenue Association (GNMAA) and Leo Burnett, 24 topiaries shaped like compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs -- the spiral-shaped, energy-saving ones -- will grace the garden beds of Michigan Avenue.
Standing approximately three feet tall amongst the flowers of The Magnificent Mile, the green bulbs are meant to educate Michigan Avenue shoppers about energy efficiency in a light-hearted, yet thought-provoking way. Curious passersby will be able to read about CFL bulbs on an information plaque designed in a style typical of horticultural signage, authentic right down to the Latin "species" name (Compactus fluorescent illuminus bulbus).
The bulbs will be equipped with energy-efficient lighting to help tell their story during the evening hours. In addition, two larger 8-foot installations will grace Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo and Rockford's Sinnissippi Park later in June.
Leo Burnett partnered with ComEd to conceive this installation as a way to promote the use of CFL bulbs, which use 75 percent less energy than traditional bulbs and last up to 10 times longer, saving on energy costs. Information on a new program to provide incentives for efficient lighting will be available on www.ComEd.com within the next few weeks.
The topiaries are an integral part of ComEd's latest advertising campaign to raise awareness about energy efficiency and environmental impact in its Northern Illinois service territory. In the multi-platform campaign encompassing TV, radio, out-of-home and print ads, ComEd is asking customers to "Go Green. Save Green." through the company's various environmental programs and offers.
"This campaign is a part of ComEd's ongoing commitment to helping our customers conserve energy, save money and benefit the environment," said Anne Pramaggiore, executive vice president of Customer Operations, Regulatory and External Affairs, ComEd. "We hope that the topiaries will increase awareness of a very important message-- that CFL bulbs are a simple, easy way to make a difference, both in the environment and on your bill."
