Things You'll Need:
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Step 1
Right now, there is one main alternative to incandescent lights. That’s the compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL). They are much more energy- efficient and last 10 times longer than regular light bulbs. There are definitely drawbacks to this technology. For one, they can’t be used in three-way lamps. They also contain mercury, though, as the EPA assures us, it’s “only a small amount.” Also CFL’s generally cannot be easily recycled, though more communities and some retailers are beginning to offer some recycling programs.
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Step 2
Another choice is LED (light emitting diodes) lighting, though this hasn’t been much of a quality option. LED’s emit a fairly blue-hued light versus the soft white of a standard bulb.
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Step 3
EcoStory, a small company in Maine, manufactures an LED light that rivals incandescents. Currently for commercial use only, these quality bulbs emit soft white light, have a longer life, and use less energy than normal light bulbs. The only drawback right now is the cost. A typical 50-watt halogen bulb costs $5. A comparable EcoStory LED bulb costs $50. With a life span of 40,000 hours (vs. 1,500 for standard bulbs), however, depending on utility rates, payback can be in a little over one year.
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Step 4
There’s talk of creating a higher-efficiency incandescent light bulb. They’ll cost more than light bulbs do now, but promise to last for years, offering great energy savings over their lifetime.
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Step 5
Another option currently in development is the mercury-free CFL. General Electric and other manufacturers are working to perfect this new technology but say it’s at least 5 to 10 years away from production.
