CHICAGO (WBBM) - A Chicago Congressman is urging the U.S. Senate to flip the switch on energy efficient light bulbs in government buildings.

WBBM Political Editor Craig Dellimore has the story.

Congressman Dan Lipinski wants the Senate to approve legislation that would require the use of high-efficiency light bulbs in all federal buildings. That house passed language is NOT in the Senate's energy bill right now.

Lipinski says using energy efficient bulbs could save taxpayers tens of millions of dollars and make the nation more energy independent.

The Kluczynski federal building, where Congressman Dan Lipinski spoke with reporters, is already using high efficiency light bulbs in most places, and saving money.

Compact fluorescent bulbs-for example-use only a quarter of the energy of incandescent bulbs.

Lipinski's legislation would direct the General Services Administration and federal agencies to use the newer bulbs everywhere.

 
Lipinski notes the federal government is one of the largest consumers of energy in this country.