Greenrock is encouraging residents to swap their lightbulbs for CFL (compact fluorescent) bulbs to cut down on global warming.

The charity ran a Bulb Swap last month in which 980 people exchanged their incandescent lightbulbs — 65 percent using CFLs for the first time.

The initiative, sponsored by GE, HWP and Belco, took place in three places in Hamilton and one in Warwick. Up to 1,960 CFLs were distributed for free — equating to an annual $60,000 saving in electricity costs based on a five-hours-a-day usage.

Assuming the CFLs are equivalent to a 60 watt regular bulb, this equates to an energy reduction of 84 kwh per CFL, bringing annual savings of $31 per CFL.

Members of the public can now take part in a Bulb Swap Online Survey, whereby they can receive 'Buy One, Get One Free' coupons for the latest designer CFLs on the market. These include globe, candle or cone-shaped bulbs. Those still participating in the survey in 12 months' time also have the chance to receive a stainless steel, energy-efficient microwave.

Registration for the Bulb Swap Online Survey ends on March 31. Log onto: www.greenrock.org for more details.