Even fluorescent lights should be turned off if you're out of the room for more than a few seconds. Use lower wattage bulbs wherever practical. The wattage of the bulb does not measure the amount of light it provides, but simply the amount of power it uses. Light is measured in lumens, which are marked on each package. It's a good idea to read bulb packages carefully to get the most lumens per watt.
Fluorescent lights are more economical than incandescent bulbs.
Fluorescents are cooler in operation, give 2.5 times the light for the same voltage, and last up to 10 times longer than incandescents. Lamp shades with white liners reflect more light downward, so lower wattage bulbs may be used. Liners that are sufficiently dense to hide the bulb should still be thin enough to transmit soft, even light. Position study lamps carefully to avoid glare and shadow. When remodeling or redecorating, paint walls a light color that will reflect more light and make maximum use of the lighting in a room.