For Roy Johnson, who works for Johnson Art Studio Lighting Design, his work of designing LED light bulbs and other efficient light systems couldn’t be more fulfilling. His job of designing lighting systems is directly tied to the quality of lighting we enjoy at work and at home. As world governments work towards phasing out energy-inefficient incandescent light bulbs, Johnson and his colleagues at the Studio have some major work to do ahead of them, designing new low-energy lighting solutions that combine cutting-edge technology with old world aesthetics.

As the United States government begins phasing out 100-wat incandescent light bulbs on January 2012, the race is on for the next big thing in lighting. LED light bulbs are getting the most attention these days, with many people lauding their low energy usage and generous lighting output. Of course, there are other alternatives out there, and this article will look at the top 3 on the market.

CFLs

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are currently the most popular alternative to incandescent light bulbs, costing as little as $1.00 to $4.00 each. Most, if not all, CFLs on the market use more than 75% less energy than their incandescent counterparts, producing the same lighting strength while keeping one’s electric bill low. Most CFLs are also rated to last more than 8,000 hours. However, CFLs contain small traces of mercury, which are enough to be a danger to children and pets. Recycling CFLs can also be a

tricky process.

Halogens

Halogen lamps are essentially upgraded versions of incandescent bulbs. They use 20% less energy compared to their predecessors, are completely free of mercury, but have a disappointing lifespan. Most halogens on the market are only rated to last up to 3,000 hours of use. However, halogens are patronized for providing lighting quality that’s just as good—if not better—than the class light bulb.

LEDs

LED (light-emitting diode) light bulbs are highly efficient devices. Each normal-looking bulb contains dozens of diodes, which together, generate a generous level of lighting. LED bulbs are astonishingly energy efficient, using as little as 10 watts of electricity, generating the same lighting strength of that of a 60-watt incandescent bulb. LEDs are also long-lasting, with life spans that go upwards of 20,000 hours. The biggest catch to these devices is that each bulb can cost more than $40.

Roy Johnson and his fellow designers however, believe that LEDs are poised to be the next standard in lighting. They use little power, don't generate high heat levels and last for decades. The best part is that the technology has far from peaked, so only time can tell what LEDs will be like in the not-so-distant future.