Autumn Lighting: How to Save Energy as Days Get Shorter
I notice it every mid-September: the sun slips away earlier and my flat feels dim by dinnertime. That's when the lights go on—and when the electricity bill starts creeping up. The good news is that lighting is one of the easiest things to optimize. With a few small changes, I've cut mine almost in half without living in the dark.
Swap Out the Old Bulbs
I used to run a mix of halogens and old incandescents. The glow was nice; the cost wasn't. Switching to LEDs felt pricey at first, but the next bill told the story. LEDs use about 80% less energy and last a decade or more. Swapping a handful in my living room alone saved roughly €10 a month. That adds up over a year.
Let the Daylight In
Most of us underuse natural light. I moved my desk closer to the window and swapped a heavy curtain for a lighter one. Suddenly I didn't need a lamp until late afternoon. A neighbor put a mirror opposite her window and her living room brightened right up. Simple tweak, big effect.
Use Lights Only When You Need Them
Hallways, basements, storage rooms… we flip the switch and forget. I added a €15 motion sensor in the corridor; now the light shuts off after two minutes. It pays for itself in one winter.
Small Habits, Big Difference
The easy wins come from small routines. I hit the switch when I leave a room—now it's automatic. Instead of lighting the whole kitchen, I use a table lamp to read. I also cook a bit earlier, before it's fully dark. These tweaks don't feel like sacrifices, but they do show up on the bill.
Conclusion: Shorter days don't have to mean higher bills. With LEDs, more natural light, and a couple of smart gadgets, autumn evenings stay just as cozy—without the shock when the electricity statement arrives. Combine these lighting tips with our [5 habits to cut heating bills](/en/blog/2025-10-01-cut-heating-bill-5-habits) and [winter home preparation guide](/en/blog/2025-10-07-winter-home-prep) for maximum energy savings.
About the author:
Alexandre Dubois is a French sustainability enthusiast who explores practical, science-backed habits for everyday life. From reducing household energy use to cutting food waste, his focus is on small changes that add up to real impact. He shares what he tests in his own home so others can live greener without sacrificing comfort. Contact: info@greendailyfix.com
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