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A spotlight on energy efficient lighting

With energy efficient lighting solutions and useful energy-saving tips, there may be light at the end of the tunnel for controlling your electricity costs.
5 min read
Last updated 28 Aug, 2023

If your household is like the average Australian one, lighting can account for as much as 10% of your electricity use.

But with the right energy-efficient lighting solutions and some useful energy-saving tips, there could be light at the end of the tunnel to bring down your costs.

Finding the right energy-efficient lighting

While sunlight well and truly tops the list, two other popular forms of energy-efficient lighting found in Australian homes are Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs).

Some of them can use up to 80% less energy than incandescent light bulbs and last longer – so you don’t need to whip out that step ladder and change them as often.

While these light bulbs can be more expensive in the beginning, over time, the energy savings – along with the financial ones – can really add up. For more on the difference between LEDs and traditional incandescent lamps, visit our discussion on the topic over at Community; our online forum for all things energy.

Fitting in with your energy-efficient lighting goals

Reducing the costs of your home’s lighting doesn’t need to start and end with installing energy-efficient light bulbs. Choosing the right light fittings can also be effective. Here are three questions worth answering when you’re redecorating or shopping around:

  • Are there any objects in the room – like pieces of art or furniture –you’d like to showcase with lighting? Knowing this early can guide you towards a wise decision.
  • What’s the purpose of the room? The more often it’s used, the more you could potentially save by having the right energy-efficient lighting solution
  • Could a skylight serve you better? If there’s a popular room in your house that sees little sun, let light in from above and help cut your lighting costs during the day

Light the way with these top tips

  • Don’t be fooled by the purchase price: some of the most expensive globes cost a pretty penny because they offer you a certain effect, rather than energy efficiency.
  • Timers and sensors: take the hard work out of flicking the switch – especially for any outdoor lights and inside lamps you use to convince people someone’s home.
  • Train the team: it’s obvious, but reminding your family how an empty room needs no light and getting them to flick the switch on the way out is an oldie but a goody.

Where is your electricity is going?

AGL Energy Insights helps you to take control of your electricity costs and find out where you could start making savings.

Learn more

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