Coopersburg, Pa. (June 26, 2009) — Lighting control manufacturer Lutron Electronics has donated thousands of products to Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization that builds homes around the globe for families in need.

The donation, including thousands of energy-saving dimmers, is available for use in Habitat for Humanity projects throughout the United States. Current projects under construction include the "Road to Hope" project in the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania, home to Lutron's world headquarters. This 40-home development is co-sponsored by Thrivent Builds, a $100 million partnership program with Habitat for Humanity designed to provide a "hand up" to people who lack decent shelter.

"Lutron's generous donation will help thousands of families live an energy-efficient lifestyle in their new homes," said Chris Bennick, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, Lehigh Valley. "The cost savings realized both in energy savings and not having to replace bulbs as often will truly make a difference financially and in the quality of life."

A single Lutron dimmer can save up to $30 a year in electricity costs and light bulb life extension. Dimmers also offer the added benefits of using only the light you need and provide full spectrum of light when used with incandescent and halogen bulbs. Each year, Lutron dimmers save a total of 9.2 billion kWh. To put that number in perspective, that's the equivalent output of one large coal or nuclear-fired power plant. The equivalent annual dollar savings to the economy is $1 billion in energy costs.*

About Habitat for Humanity www.habitat.org
Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. We build with people in need regardless of race or religion. We welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds.

About Lutron Electronics www.lutron.com
Lutron Electronics Co., Inc., headquartered in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania, designs and manufactures lighting controls and automated window treatments for residential and commercial applications. Lutron products save energy and make light bulbs last longer, making them an eco-friendly addition to the home and office.

*References:
1. Lutron survey of customers and employees
2. California energy study
3. EPA/Energy star and Energy information administration http://www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/electricity/epm/table5_3.html
5. Lutron survey of commercial lighting designers, architects and field service engineers
6. Energy information administration http://www.eia.doe.gov/emeu/cbecs/cbecs2f.html

Corporate Contact: Melissa Andresko
Media Relations Manager
Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
610.282.6440
mandresko@lutron.com

Agency Contact: Stephanie Herzfeld
Media Relations Specialist
Carmichael Lynch Spong
212.414.6844
stephanie.herzfeld@clynch.com

ArchitectureWeek Press Release Service