Simulated economic evaluation of changing from CFLs to LED lighting

Almost world-wide energy inefficient incandescent and CFL lamps are used in great numbers for domestic applications. The desire to reduce electrical loading and electricity bills by using energy efficient lighting has resulted in a high level of interest in replacing conventional incandescent lamp and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) with Light Emitting Diodes (LED) lamps. This research will cover all the economic benefits of replacing CFLs and traditional incandescent bulbs with more energy efficient LEDs lightings. The case study was performed on the standard three bed rooms’ house design. Most LED bulbs in the market utilise the same light fittings for the traditional CFL bulbs, so replacement is facilitated. The main purpose is to convince and make the community understand how valuable it is to invest in LEDs. Program simulations on the light intensity for the CFLs and LED lighting systems were performed. The energy-saving potentials were also calculated according to the sample of the house under study. LEDs also have a much longer life-span, reducing regular necessary replacements, irritating down-times and inexcusable delays. Calculations results in a simple standard three bed room house saving the total energy of 372.6 kWh, or R530.96 annually as per City of Cape Town domestic electricity tariffs of Block 1 of 142.50 cents per kWh [1].