Consumers can now turn in discarded CFLs to get incentives NEW DELHI: Taking the first steps towards safe disposal of compact fluorescent lamps, power distribution company BSES on Friday launched a new programme wherein consumers can turn in their discarded CFLs and incandescent bulbs in exchange for incentives. Energy conservation The scheme, launched by Delhi Power Minister A.K. Walia, is aimed at fostering the ongoing energy conservation drive and ensuring safe disposal of CFLs. It will allow customers to buy CFLs at heavily discounted prices and reward them for turning in discarded CFLs and energy-guzzling incandescent bulbs. "It is good to see BSES actively participating in the Delhi Government's mission to conserve electricity. I once again appeal to all the Bhagidari partners and citizens of Delhi to take the lead in conserving electricity - the need of the hour," said Mr. Walia. Under the scheme, BSES customers will be able to buy CFLs at a discounted price. For instance, a energy saving pack containing two 20-Watt CFLs has been priced at Rs.200. "Customers turning in discarded but not broken CFLs and incandescent bulbs of any make will be eligible for an additional discount of Rs.5 to 12 on the twin energy saving packs. " All that a customer needs to do is visit any of BSES's 33 Customer Care Centres and 33 select Cash Counters -where special kiosks have been set up, show a copy of the last paid bill and avail of the offer. There is no restriction on the number of CFLs a customer can buy," a BSES official said. Positive aspects "According to studies, use of CFLs will go a long way in reducing mercury emissions from electricity. A power plant will emit 10 mg of mercury to produce electricity to run one incandescent bulb compared to only 2.4 mg of mercury to run a CFL for the same time," he added. Pointing out that BSES is the first distribution company in the country to facilitate a structured programme for safe disposal of CFLs, Study BSES Chief Executive Offi