T-5 lamps, rated at 28 watts, are becoming popular in Europe and are finding increasing use in the U. S. for new construction. However, they may fit where others do not, and are popular for cove lighting and display cases as well as general lighting. They are also brighter than the T-8. New fixtures add to the cost, but good fixtures are much more efficient than older models and often save on the number of lamps required. Because of the energy savings, they are popular as retrofits as well.
Recent studies suggest that improved lighting quality increases productivity.
A practical reference tool for the lighting upgrade process. Directory to companies, products and resources for lighting specifiers and buyers. The Lighting Research Center guide that compares T12 to T8 lamp ballasts. Searchable database of ballasts for full-size fluorescent lamps. Ballasts that meet specifications of the Lighting Design Lab Specification Committee, the Fluorescent Lamp Electronic Ballast Specifications, and ANSI C82.11-1993.