For 21 years, Rising Star has been a pioneer in the green furniture market, and its Wellspring futon line has been cited by the Wall Street Journal for its use of fill made from recycled plastic beverage bottles and other innovative materials. The company's commitment to the environment -- and to healthier living for both customers and employees -- extends to its retail facilities and to general business operations. Rising Star recently installed a rooftop solar system that generates electricity from Central Oregon sunshine, and lighting throughout the retail store was also upgraded to high-efficiency fluorescent ballasts, tubes and compact bulbs, saving hundreds of dollars per year on utility bills and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Bend, OR (PRWeb) December 2, 2006 -- Rising Star Stellar Home Furnishings has harnessed the power of Central Oregon sunshine and energy efficient technologies to reduce operating costs and contribute to a greener, cleaner Oregon.
Since installing a rooftop solar-electric system in January, Rising Star has generated more than 10,000 kilowatt hours of electricity and eliminated more than 20,000 pounds of greenhouse gases. Rising Star will also save more than $1,000 this year on its electricity bill.
High-efficiency lighting recently installed throughout the 6,000 square-foot retail store provides additional cost savings that contribute directly to the business's bottom line results.
After five years, the cost of Rising Star's 9,500-watt rooftop solar system installation will be offset 97 percent by rebates, tax credits and depreciation allowances. "Oregon business owners are fortunate to have state incentives that really help make solar installations financially feasible," explains owner Leslie Blok. "Although the upfront investment was significant, after the first five years the energy cost savings will be as good as money in the bank."
Central Oregon-based Sunlight Solar Energy designed and installed the system, and Bend-based PV Powered manufactured the inverters that convert direct current from the panels into alternating current. Premium Lighting of Eugene installed high-efficiency fluorescent ballasts and tubes, compact fluorescent spotlights and halide exterior lighting.
:: About Rising Star Stellar Home Furnishings
For 21 years, Rising Star Stellar Home Furnishings has sold stylish furniture and made green futons in Bend, Oregon. The company is committed to providing consumers with sustainable, green and organic product choices. For six years running, readers of The Source Weekly have voted Rising Star "Best Furniture Store in Central Oregon." For more on Rising Star, visit www.risingstarfurniture.com or call 800-828-6711 (local 541-382-4221).
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