Energy-saving LED light bulbs, which could save Bermuda consumers as much as $22 million over four years, will first be distributed to seniors and low-income households, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced.

The shipment of 150,000 bulbs, which arrived in February, would go to other households looking to lower their bills after the initial distribution.

A statement thanked Age Concern, Family Centre, Meals on Wheels, the Salvation Army, the Bermuda Housing Corporation and the Eliza DoLittle Society.

The groups are to contact the first recipients of the LEDs to arrange collection.

The ministry said a single 60-watt LED used for five hours daily at current prices would save $37 per year.

Each bulb typically lasts four to six years and could save a minimum of $148 – with the 150,000 bulbs saving households $22 million.

A single LED also saves about 240 kilograms of carbon dioxide from entering our atmosphere.

The total carbon cut from the bulbs was said to be the equivalent of taking more than 4,000 cars off the road.