Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs)
This bulb was introduced in 1973 due to an oil crisis in the U.S., and since then it’s usage has increased. Unlike incandescent bulbs, CFLs do not contain any filaments. Instead, they are made of two parts: a gas-filled tube (also called bulb or burner) and the magnetic or electronic ballast. When the light is turned on, the electrical energy, which flows through the gas, emits ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light then excites a phosphor coating on the inside of the tube, this is what makes the light visible. Since these bulbs do not contain filaments, they last around 6,000-15,000 hours compared to incandescents 1,000 hours. Not only that, but CFLs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and in the long run will save the average household, according to Energy Star between $44-1,500 per year. As demand for CFLs has increased, so has the technology. Many of these lights now emit a “soft-white” light (rather than the harsh white of many tube CFLs) and also work in dimmable and three way fixtures.

There are a couple drawbacks with using CFLs. One of the major problems is the use of mercury in these bulbs. While the level is very minute (about 5 mg according to the EPA), when collected in a landfill, these levels could become hazardous to humans and wildlife. Many CFLs have been thrown in the trash, and break when thrown into landfills. The mercury then seeps into the groundwater and soil. This could potentially make its way into drinking water and our produce. To combat this problem, companies like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a CFL recycling program.

Beyond the mercury levels, one of the growing concerns of switching over to CFLs has been the increased levels of UV radiation from these bulbs. In early October 2008, the British Health Agency (HPA) investigated CFLs and found that nine out of 53 bulbs emitted unacceptable levels of UV radiation at a proximity of 12 inches or less and for a period of more than one hour per day. Not only that, but those suffering from lupus or other problems caused by the sun are especially susceptible to such UV exposure. The HPA suggests enclosed or globe CFLs for any applications where UV exposure is a concern; the extra enclosure is enough to absorb excess UV. While most people are not in contact with CFLs at such close proximity and for long periods of time, those with CFL desk lamps or who work continuously around these bulbs should take extra precaution to cover the lights.

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
While CFLs are still the main alternative bulbs for many households, LEDs are slowly taking over the market as a much safer and even longer lasting light. The first practical use LEDs were invented in 1962 with a $200/unit price tag. Nowadays the cost has decreased significantly, and technology has also advanced these bulbs to emit many shades of color from red to a soft white. While the bulbs are still more expensive than CFLs, they may end up being better for the environment. The main problem with CFLs (mercury) is absent in LEDs. LEDs also last much longer than either bulbs by a long shot at 25,000 hours. Compare that to CFLs max of 15,000 hours. In a recent study by The Department of Energy, LEDs could reduce national energy consumption for lighting by 29% by 2025. That would save U.S. households $125 billion on their electric bills and would have a significant positive impact on global warming, energy and emissions initiatives. Large corporations like Starbucks are planning on installing LEDs for all the new stores that open worldwide.

One of the major disadvantages of LEDs, besides the initial cost, is the color of the LEDs, most notably blue LEDs. Blue LEDs are much brighter than their red or green counterparts and can cause greater eyestrain and fatigue than any other color. It can also interfere with internal body clocks, disrupting sleep patterns. Even low levels of blue light during sleep might weaken the immune system and have serious negative implications for health. While you can avoid the true blue LEDs, even the cool-white LEDs emit proportionately more blue light than standard incandescents or CFLs. This causes blue pollution and when used in outdoors spaces (think Times Square) can cause significantly more light pollution. Another major disadvantage of using LEDs is that they do not light a room as well as incandescents and fluorescent lights.

In February 2010, RTI introduced nanofiber lamps, which use LEDs and combines flexible photoluminescent nanofiber technology and nano-fiber based reflectors in order to create white light. These bulbs can generate an excess of 55 lumens per watt and can range in color from warm white to cool white.

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Just building the photovoltaic cells are not enough, the energy also has to be affordable, and that’s where the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) comes in. The ministry is offering subsidies for renewable energy to bring the cost per kW/hr down. In fact, the government will provide a 55 cent subsidy on home and business solar installations as well as bringing down wind energy a half a rubee per kW/hr. Estimated cost of implementing the National Solar Mission alone is $19 billion. On top of the photovoltaic cells themselves, India also plans on improving the power grid and has put aside $200 billion to build a cleaner, more efficient Smart Grid by 2015. But just having the money is not enough. According to Siddharth Pathak, climate and energy campaigner for Greenpeace India, “India needs international support. The industrialized world needs to come up with solid proposals on technology and finance to help developing countries deliver on ambitious plans like this one”.

India is making a huge step in pushing renewable energy, and the government’s passion and focus is resonating worldwide. With the help of other countries as well as the support of the Indian people and government officials, India can become a leader in renewable energy.

Click here for the full NAPCC.

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