Making the switch to energy efficient lighting

Energy efficient lighting is an approach to lighting that seeks to minimise energy usage while simultaneously delivering upon required functionality. It’s estimated that a 13% reduction in household greenhouse gas emissions is possible merely by choosing appropriate lighting technology. Combine this with a reduction in electricity costs and the case for switching to energy efficient lighting becomes an increasingly attractive option for many households.

Lighting technology has come a long way in the past ten years. Previously, virtually every household in the United States used incandescent globes. Nowadays, households are able to choose between the older style incandescent globes and the more modern compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL).

Compact fluorescent lighting

• Compact fluorescent light bulbs use around 80 percent less electricity and last around 9 times longer than incandescent light globes.
• Instead of using between 40 and 100 watts, common in incandescent globes, compact fluorescent light bulbs generally use between 9 and 20 watts.
• Energy consumption and the cost of lighting are directly proportional to a globe’s wattage. Compact fluorescent light bulbs, with their lower wattage, have the capacity to both reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save you money.

Balancing higher up-front costs with lower on-going costs

• One of the drawbacks of switching to energy efficient lighting is the higher up-front costs involved. Compact fluorescent light bulbs are generally more expensive than incandescent globes.
• The higher upfront costs associated with switching from incandescent globes needs to be balanced with the longer life span of compact fluorescent light bulbs together with the cost savings associated with lower energy usage.
• Most households find that the payback period, which is the time that elapses before covering the initial investment, is generally less than a year.

Availability and range

• Compact fluorescent light bulbs are available wherever conventional light bulbs are sold. Most hardware stores and major supermarkets stock a good range.
• With their increased popularity, the range of colours, shapes, sizes and functions has broadened in recent times. Whether you’re after a ‘warm white’ colour, similar in appearance to an incandescent globe for use in living areas, kitchens, and bedrooms, or whether you need a ‘cool’ white colour suitable for use in bathrooms, toilets and for outdoor use, you should be able to find something to suit.
• Most will fit straight into your existing light sockets, whether they are the conventional bayonet or screw fitting light sockets.

Additional tips for saving money and reducing your carbon footprint

• Use natural lighting as much as possible. If you’re building a new home, look for opportunities to utilise natural light by incorporating skylights and sky dome lighting.
• Turn all lights off when they are not in use.
• Choose globes with the lowest wattage required for each particular area of your home.
• For outdoor settings, choose solar-powered lights.