Lighting Alternatives

Fluorescent Lighting

• Probably the most well-known type of alternative lighting is fluorescent lighting. This is being called upon as one of the key replacement sources for the incandescent bulb. One type is the "straight tube," which can commonly be found in offices, schools and kitchens. This type of lighting usually comes in cylindrical tubes of four or eight feet. The lights can last up to 24,000 hours and require a special ballast installation to operate. Alternatively, compact fluorescent lighting -- or CFLs -- are around the same size as incandescent bulbs, but up to 75 percent more efficient. CFLs last up to 10,000 hours.

HID Lighting

• Although not suitable for lighting around the house, HID lighting, which uses a ballast and electric arc, can work well in large areas, such as arenas. They last longer than any type of bulb and also provide the highest efficiency, as they are up to 90 percent more efficient than incandescent bulbs. HID lamps are not practical for common house lighting because they can take 10 minutes to work after being turned on due to the function of electric arcs.

Solar Lighting

• Solar lighting makes up a clear pathway to future types of lighting. Because it relies on renewable energy, solar lighting creates light free of charge after it's installed. Solar lighting uses a solar panel that converts sunlight into electricity, as well as a battery that stores the electricity that can be sent to the bulb when in use. Although effective in the majority of the U.S., the downside to solar lighting is that they operate much more ineffectively -- up to 50 percent -- during winter months or in areas with little sun.

LED Lights

• Another lighting type considered in its infancy is LED lighting. LED lighting, unlike other sources, is monochromatic, meaning it can emit different colors depending upon its design materials. It also emits very little heat and operates directionally, making it ideal for recessed lighting.