Meanwhile, the pollution created by generating electricity to run standard inefficient lights has many known health effects. Halogen lighting is super-efficient. Halogen lights use slightly less energy than standard incandescent bulbs, but halogens require transformers that can use extra energy, even when the light is off. Halogens can also pose a fire hazard. Conversely, compact fluorescent lights are nearly three-times as efficient and don't pose a fire hazard.
Many new models are dimmable, like halogens.
Electric heating is more efficient than fuel-based heating. It's true that all, or almost all, of the electricity that goes into an electric heater is transformed to useful heat in your home. However, making electricity is an inefficient process. This is why electricity is so much more expensive for the consumer than direct fuels. Buying an efficient air conditioner or furnace will automatically reduce your utility bill.