The last batch of energy saving lamps procured from Osram, a Germany manufacturing firm, will be in the country soon.

The government ordered for 450,000 Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). So far over 90 per cent have been delivered in the country.

It is expected that with these lamps widely used, Electrogaz—the power generating and distribution company will be able to supply more power, as these lamps use less energy.

Each CFL uses 12 to 15 watts at peak, while the ordinary ones use between 60 to 100 watts.

When CFL is used four hours a day, it can save 29.2kW/h per year and an accumulated 468kW/h in four years, an energy expert said.

Currently the country is saving 15mw and consumers are saving three quarter of power per year, State Minister for Energy and Communication, Eng. Albert Butare said.

But the government of Rwanda plans to carryout a thorough survey to assess effectiveness and impact of the energy saving bulbs.

Cost

The CFLs are more expensive than ordinary incandescent light bulb at Frw2,500 compared to Frw800. But experts defend the opportunity cost of the CFLs, saying they have a longer life and use less electricity.

The first batch of fifty thousand CFLs arrived in the country on March 15 last year.

Ends