Minnesota began phasing out fluorescent lights last year as a ban passed in 2023 took effect. Designed to reduce mercury pollution and encourage more energy-efficient lighting, this ban aligns Minnesota with other states that have passed similar laws.
And while this may mean headaches for commercial property owners having to switch their lighting over to LEDs to stay compliant, it also provides an opportunity for improved energy efficiency and, as a result, long-term financial savings.
Read on to learn what’s changing with Minnesota's fluorescent lighting ban, how it may affect your commercial property, and opportunities inherent in this lighting upgrade. Plus, get a simple game plan for making the switch.
Minnesota’s fluorescent lighting ban took effect on January 1st of 2025, with a plan to phase out the sale and use of fluorescent lighting in the state. The sale or distribution of some fluorescent bulbs was prohibited as of that date, while others weren’t banned until January 1st of 2026:
As of the first of this year, it is illegal to sell or distribute these fluorescent lamps in Minnesota, whether the seller is in MN or outside of the state.
Learn more about the details of the ban here.
This bill is part of an ongoing effort to reduce mercury pollution in the state. Fluorescent bulbs typically contain about 4mg of mercury vapor, which can be released when they are broken. Mercury, even in small amounts, can be toxic to humans. It can also make its way into water sources and build up in fish and the animals who eat fish, thereby making its way into our diet.
In addition to being hazardous, fluorescent bulbs are also much less energy efficient than LED bulbs, which do not contain mercury.
This doesn’t mean you have to immediately dispose of all your fluorescent light bulbs. You can continue to use any fluorescent bulbs you currently have — you just won’t be able to buy replacement bulbs.
As your fluorescent bulbs burn out, you’ll need to replace them with LEDs. It’s important to plan ahead now to avoid shortages or disruptions. And as you dispose of your fluorescent bulbs, make sure to recycle them properly to avoid potential mercury leaks.
While making the switch from fluorescent to LED can come with unexpected costs and maintenance challenges, it also comes with a big opportunity to make your building a more energy-efficient space … which will save you money in the long run.
LED bulbs have a number of benefits compared to fluorescents, including:
This means long-term energy savings for you — and a better experience for your tenants, who will enjoy the improved lighting aesthetics LEDs provide.
What’s more, you may qualify for rebates and incentives that make the switch to LEDs a lot less expensive than you might imagine. Many electric utility companies across the state offer rebates, incentives, and guidance for commercial building owners upgrading to LEDs. Some Xcel Energy customers in MN can even qualify for free LED lights and installation (View program requirements and apply here)!
Replacing all of your existing fluorescent bulbs with LEDs can feel like a huge undertaking. The time to plan for the switch is now, so you’re not caught off-guard when your bulbs burn out.
As with any big project, it’s helpful to break it down into a clear set of steps. In this case, we’d recommend the following:
To this last point: When upgrading from fluorescent lighting to LEDs, you can choose between retrofitting your fixtures or replacing them. Retrofitting means modifying existing fixtures to work with LED tubes, meaning:
However, retrofitting may require steps like bypassing or removing the ballast and ensuring compatibility with LED tubes.
Replacement, on the other hand, involves installing entirely new LED fixtures. While this option can involve higher up-front costs and more labor, it provides several long-term advantages, including:
Ultimately, while retrofitting is simpler and cheaper up front, replacement delivers greater long-term benefits.
👉While you’re in planning mode, get ready for spring with our Spring Commercial Maintenance Tips!
While Minnesota’s fluorescent lighting ban is a compliance requirement that must be met, it’s also an opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of your commercial property.
The team at APPRO and CERRON can help you make the transition by evaluating lighting upgrades as part of your broader property strategy. And if you’re planning a renovation or tenant improvements, we’re happy to integrate your lighting changes into those projects.
Contact us today to discuss your needs and learn how APPRO and CERRON can help.