All rights reserved. A project of the World Resources Institute Energy Star Savings Calculators Estimate the savings from Energy Star products compared to average models. The inner surface of the lamp is coated with phosphor that emits light when struck by the UV radiation. The flow of energy to the vapor is regulated by a magnetic or electronic ballast.
Electronic ballasts enjoy several advantages over magnetic ballasts.
They do not generate the irritating flicker that characterizes magnetic ballasts when the lights first are turned on. Lamps powered by electronic ballasts last longer and are more efficient. Electronic ballasts also are lighter, facilitating their use in fixtures that would be too top-heavy with lamps powered by magnetic ballasts. Available in many sizes and shapes, they can be used in most conventional fixtures designed for conventional light bulbs. What's more the average CFL lasts more than ten times longer than its incandescent counterpart.