Energy efficient lighting in the residences of staff of the University of Education, Winneba

Abstract

It is estimated that 15% of electric power production is used for lighting consumption in Ghana. This figure is likely to increase as the country develops. There is no doubt therefore, that improving the energy efficiency of lighting in Ghana could have a great impact on Ghana's energy consumption, and subsequently, on the economy. The study is to investigate the level to which energy-efficient lighting systems are being used in some selected bungalows at the University of Education, Winneba, in Ghana. Forty bungalows were selected for the survey. A questionnaire was used to ascertain information on compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) as an energy-efficient lighting system. The results of the study show that even though academics in the university have received information about the use of CFLs as a way of saving energy, very few show interest in their use. It is inferred that lamp prices could be a more important influence on consumer's choice of efficient lamp than the cost of electricity. Market barriers, such as cost of and fundamental problems with the use of CFLs are discussed along with appropriate remedies.

African Journal of Educational Studies in Mathematics and Sciences Vol. 2(2) 2004: 31-39