From 2007, government has ordered for over 400,000 Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) to be distributed to households throughout the country free of charge. This was because using energy saving light bulbs offers many advantages yet they are more earth friendly as well.

Therefore once used by every household, they can save power while reducing the need for load shedding. Meaning that, the surplus power saved in the process will be readily available for supply in case of power shortages.

According to Electrogaz, 50,000 CFLs were expected to save 2.5 Megawatts (MW). The company said that each CFL which uses 20 watts, when used four hours a day, can save 29.2kW/h per year and an accumulated 468kW/h in four years.

Because of their saving advantage, the user also saves a substantial amount of money and energy. This is because they last up to ten times longer than normal bulbs, which also save you money on purchasing light bulbs, not to mention ten trips to the store and all the time and hassle involved.

They are also more efficient in production of heat than incandescent bulbs. This allows them to be used near heat sensitive objects, such as plants or paintings. And because of this, these bulbs can also be used for home designing.

For example, fluorescent tubes can be placed around bathroom mirrors, providing a good form of both general and task lighting. However, one perceived disadvantage of energy saving bulbs is the cost.

These light bulbs may cost Rwf2,500 to Rwf10,000 each, while traditional light bulbs may only cost Rwf300 each. Nevertheless, when you compare the average lifespan for both bulbs, energy saving bulbs will come out far ahead.

Contact: eddiemukaaya@yahoo.com