Question 1

What is the process to change my facility to LED?

Accepted Answer

Our turnkey process includes a free evaluation of your facility, a proposal of the best solution (retrofit or replacement), and complete management of incentive paperwork. We often wait for the incentive check so you only pay the difference — which is frequently $0.

Question 2

Is the LED retrofit really free?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes. Utility rebate programs like Consumers Energy's Business Energy Efficiency Program can cover 100% of the project cost for qualifying facilities. We audit your space, determine eligibility, and handle all paperwork.

Question 3

How much can I save on my energy bill?

Accepted Answer

On average, our customers save around 58% monthly on their electric lighting bill. Depending on your current setup, savings can range from 40% to 75%.

Question 4

Do you handle the rebate paperwork?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As a preferred partner of Consumers Energy, we handle all the necessary documentation to ensure you get the maximum available rebates without the headache.

Question 5

What utility rebate programs do you work with?

Accepted Answer

We work with Consumers Energy, DTE Energy, BWL, Lansing Board of Water & Light, and Energy Smart programs. Each has different incentive structures — we determine which applies to your facility.

Question 6

How long does the rebate process take?

Accepted Answer

From initial audit to completed installation is typically 2–4 weeks. Rebate processing by the utility company takes an additional 4–8 weeks. We front the rebate amount so you don't wait to start saving.

Question 7

Are LED lights dimmable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most modern LED lamps have dimming capabilities. We ensure the products we install meet your specific environmental needs, including compatibility with existing dimmer switches.

Question 8

What is color temperature and which should I choose?

Accepted Answer

3000K (warm white) is best for hospitality and dining. 4000K (neutral white) is the most popular for offices and retail. 5000K (daylight) is ideal for warehouses, workshops, and medical facilities.

Question 9

How long do LED lights last?

Accepted Answer

LED lamps typically last 50,000+ hours — that's over 11 years of continuous 12-hour daily use. Compared to fluorescent (20,000 hrs) and metal halide (15,000 hrs), LEDs dramatically reduce maintenance and replacement costs.

Question 10

What does DLC-qualified mean?

Accepted Answer

DLC (DesignLights Consortium) qualification means the product has been independently tested and meets strict performance standards for commercial and industrial applications. It's also required for most utility rebate programs.

Question 11

Do I need to shut down my business during installation?

Accepted Answer

No. We schedule installations during off-hours or work section-by-section to minimize disruption. Most facilities remain fully operational throughout the project.

Question 12

Are your electricians licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every installation is performed by Michigan-licensed electricians. We carry full liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.

Question 13

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve businesses throughout Michigan with a focus on West Michigan including Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Muskegon, Holland, Traverse City, Lansing, and surrounding areas.

Question 14

How long does a typical installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most commercial retrofits complete in 1–3 days depending on facility size. Larger industrial projects may take 1–2 weeks. We schedule around your operations to minimize disruption.

Question 15

What is a Level 2 EV charger?

Accepted Answer

A Level 2 charger uses a 240-volt circuit to charge your EV 5–10x faster than a standard wall outlet. It delivers 25–44 miles of range per hour, meaning a full charge overnight.

Question 16

Can you install a charger for any EV brand?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install chargers for every electric vehicle on the market — Tesla, Ford, Chevy, BMW, Rivian, Hyundai, Kia, Volkswagen, and all others.

Question 17

Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel?

Accepted Answer

Not always. A Level 2 charger typically requires a 40–60 amp breaker. During our free assessment, we evaluate your panel and include any upgrade costs in your quote upfront.

Question 18

Is there a tax credit for EV charger installation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The federal Section 30C credit allows homeowners to claim up to 30% of charger purchase and installation costs, up to $1,000. Commercial installations may qualify for up to $100,000 per unit.

Question 19

Do you offer ongoing maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer maintenance programs for businesses that want ongoing support. This includes periodic inspections, lamp replacements, and priority service response.

Question 20

Why is this free? Is it a scam?

Accepted Answer

It's not a scam — it's a utility-funded energy efficiency program. Consumers Energy and other Michigan utilities are legally required to reduce energy consumption. Building a new power plant costs $6–8 billion; funding your LED upgrade costs a fraction of that. The rebate money comes from a small energy efficiency surcharge already on every commercial electric bill — you're paying into the program whether you use it or not.

Question 21

Can I do the LED upgrade myself and save more money?

Accepted Answer

Doing it yourself actually costs more. As a certified trade ally, Leader Lights qualifies for significantly higher rebate incentive rates than individual businesses can access on their own. The utility programs are structured so that trade allies get preferred pricing — meaning your net cost through us is typically lower than a DIY approach, even before factoring in professional labor.

Question 22

Will the installation shut down my business or disrupt operations?

Accepted Answer

No. Most installations happen during normal business hours without any production shutdown. We work section-by-section so your facility stays fully operational throughout the project. For sensitive environments like healthcare or manufacturing clean rooms, we also offer off-hours and weekend scheduling at no extra charge.

Question 23

We lease our space — does that disqualify us from the rebate program?

Accepted Answer

No. Many of our projects are in leased commercial spaces. The building owner typically benefits from reduced operating costs and improved property value, making authorization straightforward. We can provide documentation to help you present the case to your landlord, and the rebate covers the cost regardless of ownership structure.

Question 24

Our lights aren't that old — is it still worth upgrading?

Accepted Answer

If you're still running T8 fluorescents, older HID, or first-generation LEDs, you're leaving significant energy savings on the table. Even facilities with "newer" legacy lighting typically see 40–60% reductions in lighting energy costs. Since the rebate program covers the upgrade, the ROI is immediate — there's no payback period to wait through.

Question 25

What if the rebate program runs out of funding before we finish?

Accepted Answer

Utility rebate programs are funded on annual cycles, and budget allocations change from year to year. The incentives available right now are among the most generous Michigan has offered. Starting the free audit process locks in your eligibility while funding is available — there's no cost or obligation to begin.

Question 26

How do I know you're a legitimate contractor and not a fly-by-night operation?

Accepted Answer

Leader Lights has been operating in Michigan for over 15 years with more than 5,000 completed projects. We're Michigan-licensed electrical contractors, carry full liability insurance and workers' compensation, and are the #1 ranked Consumers Energy trade ally. We're happy to provide references from businesses in your area or industry.

Question 27

We don't have time to manage another project right now.

Accepted Answer

That's exactly why our process is turnkey. The only time commitment from you is a 30-minute facility walkthrough and signing off on the proposal. We handle every other step: the energy audit, rebate paperwork, scheduling, installation, post-install verification, and rebate collection. Most business owners are surprised how little involvement is required on their end.

Question 28

Our facility is too large or complex for a standard retrofit.

Accepted Answer

We specialize in large and complex commercial environments. Our portfolio includes major industrial plants, multi-building campuses, and facilities with hundreds of fixture types. We've completed projects for companies like Steelcase and other large Michigan manufacturers. Larger facilities often qualify for even higher rebate amounts.

Questions?
We've Got Answers.

LED Retrofits & Rebates

Products & Technology

Installation & Service

EV Charger Installation

Service & Support

Common Concerns

Still have questions?

Questions?We've Got Answers.