Little Bit of Green

Light Emitting Diode or LED light has been out there for a long time, basically in niche purposes such as small trinkets and indicator lighting. However, due to LED light being highly energy efficient, not to mention technologically superior over other light sources like incandescent and fluorescent lighting, it is forecasted to reach beyond electronic applications into commercial and home lighting equally. In a recent study by Global Industry Analysts it is predicted that the market for fluorescent and LED light could go up to $97 billion by 2010. The increase in growth would be primarily from construction and industrial development sectors.

As more people become aware of the energy efficiency of LEDs, the price of such items as LED bulbs will decline in price. Right now, the price of one LED bulb is considerably higher than the price of incandescent or fluorescent lights. However, the initial price for the bulbs would more than pay for itself in the end. On average, one incandescent 60-watt bulb lasts 1,000 hours whereas one 2-watt LED light bulb endures 60,000 hours. Therefore, one would have to purchase 60 incandescent bulbs for every one LED light bulb.

Home LED light is a cut above the rest when you consider energy efficiency. As opposed to incandescent lighting, LEDs wins hands down where energy consumption is involved. For every 60,000 hours of usage, incandescent lighting uses around 3,600 kWh of electricity where LED lights use 120 kWh. Bottom line: energy efficiency equals a valuable cost savings. LEDs gives off directional illumination. Therefore, it is beneficial as a source of light for reading or spotlighting in the room. Its powerful light output also makes it awesome for outdoor floodlighting and path illumination. These bulbs are now available that can replace most halogen or fluorescent bulbs used in the home.

Although LED light may not be useful for all home lighting needs, replacing a few bulbs would have a noticeable affect in the amount of energy used.

LEDs are already used in signs and videos in many indoor and outdoor sports events and parties. LED video displays and signs are frequently preferred because of their improved brightness, which is critical when people are viewing a sign or video from a long distance. Other benefits of these video displays are their ability to incorporate curves and 3-D design. This makes LED displays technologically superior to currently available large screen shows. Research and manufacturers in the consumer electronics area are ready to take advantage of this overwhelmingly useful technology in future devices.

Other uses for LED light include flashlights and key chains, vehicle taillights and interior lights, and LED-based projection TVs. LED light is also being used in the army for LED flashlights that work with night-vision goggles, UV-LED canteen water treatment plants and the sterilization of surgical equipment.

With LED light being more energy efficient and technologically superior to other light sources, numerous applications are sure to grow. Future generations can expect to consider LED light as the basic light source for most lighting applications.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!