Energy efficient lighting meets real home life

Will the phase-out of inefficient lighting in the European Union (EU) lower consumption of residential electricity significantly? Will light-emitting diode (LED) light replace other technologies for lighting in the near future? Implementation of the phase-out decision in the EU will push demand for efficient lighting technologies. One of the most efficient types, light-emitting diodes, promises even greater reductions than CFLs. However, in order to reap the gains from LEDs they must replace existing lamps and luminaires. This paper reports the findings from tests of LED lights in real homes. It points at the limits of the LED technology at sale in the market today, and the risk for a rebound effect. This paper also addresses the more general issue of theoretical development in the area of residential use of electricity. A "frame of interpretation" is presented inwhich the use of the lighting set in a home is the foundation. From this, sociotechnical and pathdependent aspects on technical and cultural inertia and marginal change can be developed.