Most low-energy light bulbs are also low on the convenience scale.

They either have that odd corkscrew shape or they're slow to light up, or both. But not the new EcoVantage halogen bulbs from Philips Lighting. They have the same size and shape as conventional bulbs, and they fire up instantly. They also don't contain mercury, unlike some other energy-saving bulbs. When I replaced an older bulb with an EcoVantage in my desk lamp, I couldn't tell the difference. According to Philips, the bulbs use incandescent technology but consume 28 percent less power to deliver the same amount of light. That saves energy and money. The EPA estimates that it costs $3.50 a year to power a halogen bulb - $1.30 less than a standard incandescent. The 43-watt EcoVantage bulbs, which replace a 60-watt incandescent, cost about $6 for a two-pack.