Lighting

Bright ideas to help you save on lighting costs.

Lighting might seem small, but it can quietly chip away at your power bill. The good news? Modern LED lighting and a few smart habits can keep your home bright, comfortable and energy‑friendly.

Australia has phased out most incandescent lights and halogen lights where an LED equivalent exists. LEDs are now the best, most efficient choice for homes - using around 75% less energy than halogens and lasting 5 to 10 times longer.

This page will teach you how to get the most out of your lighting at home.

Energy sense tips

Use LED lighting

LEDs are the standout choice now:

  • They’re the most energy‑efficient option on the market
  • They last years longer than old halogen or incandescent bulbs
  • They give excellent light quality and turn on instantly
  • Many fit into your existing light fittings, making upgrades easy.

If your home still has older bulbs, swapping them to LEDs is one of the quickest energy wins.

Make the most of natural light

  • Open curtains, blinds and internal doors to let in free daylight
  • Use skylights or light tubes where possible - just ensure they’re well‑insulated to avoid heat gain in summer
  • Paint walls in lighter colours to bounce more light around the room.

Light smarter, not harder

  • Turn off lights in rooms you’re not using
  • Use lamps or spotlights for specific tasks like reading or cooking. No need to light the whole house for one job
  • Install dimmers where possible so you only use as much light as you need.

Automate where it helps

Timers, sensors and smart lighting can make life easier:

  • Motion sensors are perfect for hallways, laundries and outdoor areas
  • Timers stop lights running longer than necessary
  • Smart LEDs let you dim, schedule and control lighting from your phone - just check for low standby use (0.5W or less).

Lighting design

When renovating or building, think about what each room actually needs. Most spaces work best with a mix of:

  • General lighting (overall brightness)
  • Task lighting (for reading, cooking, workspaces)
  • Accent lighting (to highlight features or set a mood).

A good lighting plan helps your home feel comfortable while keeping energy use in check.

Outdoor lighting

  • Choose solar outdoor lights for gardens and pathways - improved battery tech means they’re far brighter and longer‑lasting now
  • Fit outdoor lights with motion sensors so they only switch on when needed.

Festive lighting

If you love decorating:

  • Pick LED festive lights - they use much less electricity and last longer
  • Use a timer so they run for just a few evening hours
  • Turn them off when you head out or go to bed.

More information

Visit the lighting page  on the Australian Government Energy webpage.