Energy efficient downlights

[JimiMac]

I need to get 48 downlights soon. I would like an energy efficient solution and one that is reasonably future-proof.
I have read recent threads on the subject but I am a bit confused.
I was initially thinking of getting GU10 cfl's but I know there has been a lot of discussion on the leds.
Some of the bulbs mentioned have included:
megaman gu10's
gu10 90 degree 4.4w warm white
mr16 www4
3w luxeon
cree
super leds, etc
I was wondering if anybody would have any recommendations on the various options.

I have also read that some of the energy efficient bulbs stick out a bit. I have also read (somewhere?) that you can get light fittings that will take either type of bulb without them sticking out.
I think someone also posted that whilst the megaman bulbs were fine, the fittings were not great.

Just to add more confusion, I was speaking to somebody here
that said these
lights were the way to go. He said that most of the other options would be gone within a couple of years and that these new lights were the closest thing to 'real' lights. They are a bit on the expensive side. Has anybody any comments on these lights?
I would appreciate if anybody can give any pros/cons of the option they chose. If you were replacing all of your lights tomorrow, which option would you go for?

Thanks,
Jim

 

[mct1]

The problem with downlighters as far as energy efficiency is concerned is that you are making holes in the ceiling which can cause heat loss. Obviously that's only a problem if like us you live in a bungalow and the ceilings are basically the loft floor. If you live in a 2 story house then you could have downlighters in the lower storey without energy loss.

Megaman have close links with a light-fittings company called Fozz; you couold check out their stuff on www.fozzlighting.co.uk We ordered some of their wall-lights for our kitchen through a local electrical suppliers and they're really cool.

 

[xt40]

ive got some 11w compact cfl megaman gu10s in yhe kitchen. they are very good. the only issue is that they wont fit most cheap gu10 fittings. i got some in the local electrical wholesalers that fit perfectly for about 2-2.50 each. the bulbs are dear, i paid about 12+vat each for em.