A comparison of lamps for domestic lighting in developing countries

Abstract

The report describes the results of laboratory tests of lamps and light quality in terms of, inter alia, consumed principal energy and obtained quantity and quality of light, and it quantifies the differences between a number of generic types of lamps. It also identifies other factors equally important in establishing lighting conditions in a house/room such as the quality of the lamp itself. Electric lighting is shown to be better than non-electric lighting from nearly all points of view. This report was written to provide guidance to project designers and project analysts on lighting energy issues so as to enable governments to make better policy choices on rural electrification as well as choices for lighting. This information included in the report can also provide the basis for governments to offer guidance to consumers on the most attractive choice of lamps, and as a result, generate fuel and capital savings on a national basis. It can also be used to estimate energy consumption in rural areas or for planning of extension of the existing electricity grid.