01-03-2007, 05:52 PM
Since we run our house on solar powerr, one of the first things we did was reduce demand by switching to CFLs as much as possible. We probably have about 70% cfl. The areas where we don't use them are vanity lights, a few dimmable halogen spotlights, and some preexisting 12v halogen lights. It does take a little bit of experimentation to find the right lights for the job, and there is too little info available on specific bulbs (i.e. which ones are instant on, what the color temperatre is, ability to fit fixtures, etc), but that is a miniscule price to pay given the huge environmental benefit we all derive from them. The bottom line is basically that it costs you nothing (when you consider replacement costs) to cut your lighting energy usage by 70% by switching to CFLs.