McGillin’s Eco-Movement: Philadelphia’s Oldest Bar Goes Green

Typically, we see lots of new companies giving momentum to the green movement – which is why when Philly’s oldest pub goes green, it’s even cooler.  150-year old McGillin’s Olde Ale House (13th & Drury) recently chose to switch from traditional light bulbs to energy-efficient LED lighting to both reduce their carbon footprint & energy costs.

McGillin’s has already started their switch to completely LED lighting that lasts up to 50 x’s longer than their current lighting (90% less energy than traditional bulbs), saving the pub’s electricity costs by more than 25%. Besides reducing fossil fuels, McGillin’s efforts to go green include strict recycling practices and focusing on local draft beers instead of choices bottled and shipped long distances.

Chris Mullins, co-owner of McGillin’s says, “Though we remain true to our history by conserving and preserving our historic exterior, we try our best to incorporate green technology every chance we get. We expect real savings over time with no reduction in quality.”

The timing of the summer upgrade couldn’t be better for the pub, as LEDs produce much less heat and help reduce the peak electricity load during the summer months with air conditioning.  Energy-efficient lighting is one of the most effective ways to reduce fossil fuels & electricity, according to the EPA.  McGillin’s partnered with PekaSys, a Philadelphia-based business specializing in sustainable technologies, for their LED upgrade.

Posted by Julie

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher