Looking for proof that LED retrofits pay off fast? Below is the real-world cost stack we use to hit six-month ROI targets for Central Ohio warehouses.
1. Energy Savings—The Big Slice
- Swap 400 W metal-halide high-bays for 185 W LEDs ⟶ 54 % kWh reduction.
- At $0.11 kWh and 5,000 annual burn-hours, that’s $117 saved per fixture.
2. Maintenance Avoidance
LED drivers carry 5–10 year warranties. Zero lamp-swap labor vs. MH relamp every 18 months; average $25 / fixture / year saved.
3. Utility Rebates & Tax Deductions
AEP Ohio currently pays up to $0.06 per kWh reduced. On 50 fixtures, that’s a $4,000 instant check. Section 179D can boost the write-off.
4. The Payback Math
| Project Cost (50 LEDs @ $350 installed) | $17,500 |
| Minus Utility Rebate | – $4,000 |
| Net Cost | $13,500 |
| Annual Energy + Maint. Savings | $26,000 |
| Simple Payback | ≈ 6 months |
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Next Steps
Want your own custom ROI model? Request a free LED audit and we’ll calculate savings, rebates and financing.