Batteries Plus Bulbs franchise owner Antonio Villarreal, of Pharr, Texas, is making a difference and helping small businesses in his community save thousands of dollars a year. Villarreal has teamed up with energy company American Electric Power to educate his commercial customers on more-efficient lighting options that can ultimately cut energy costs. During his complementary assessment of a company's lighting solutions, Villarreal reviews the number and type of bulbs used and then makes energy-saving replacement recommendations. While initially more expensive, LED bulbs last six times as long as conventional fluorescent bulbs but use less than half the watts. And in previous cases, American Electric Power has paid between 50 and 80 percent of the company's replacement bulb costs. It's all part of Villarreal's commitment to creating a relationship with his customers and giving back to the community he serves. Read More opens in new window