One man's lightbulb moment

Bright idea: A truly revolutionary lightbulb moment
10 April 2012

While we think of eco awareness as a sign of our own times, one of the most widely adopted energy saving measures, the energy-efficient lightbulb, was developed in the 1970s. It has now been adopted all over the world as an obvious contribution to trying to be green.

The low-energy lightbulb is one of the 35 patents of American scientist Edward E Hammer. He started work on energy efficiency in the 70s for General Electric as a response to the American energy crisis. His first effort, the Watt Miser, went on sale to the public in 1973 and was a quiet revolution in the way the world was lit.

All major lamp manufacturers still use the design today and it has become central to energy-saving lighting programmes the world over.

It was just three years later that Hammer, the hero of this revolution, invented the first-ever functioning compact fluorescent lightbulb - but, sadly production proved costly. The problem was how to coat the interior of the spiral glass tube, and General Electric shelved the project.

Twenty years later, with energy saving back at the top of the political agenda, other companies started making and selling the device in the mid-1990s.

In 2002 Hammer was honoured with both the Edison Medal and his original prototype being housed in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC. His work has helped shape the modern lighting industry, and his nickname in scientific circles is the "Father of Fluorescent Signature Analysis". His methods, long after his revolutionary "lightbulb moment", are still in use today.

Tell us your Quiet Revolution and you could win a trip to see Kylie Live 2011 in Las Vegas

Win a trip for two to see Kylie's show in Las Vegas on 22 May. Just tell us about your quiet revolution for London. All the entries from the competition will be judged by a panel from Lexus and the Evening Standard. The panel will select one winner who inspired them the most. The winner and the winning entry will be featured in the Evening Standard.

HOW TO ENTER:
For a chance to win a pair of tickets simply tell us, in no more than 100 words, about your quiet revolution for London by 21 April 2011. For further information and to enter CLICK HERE.

Terms apply, click here for full details. Terms and conditions: the prize is a pair of tickets to see Kylie Live 2011 in Las Vegas on 22 May 2011, and includes return flights from a London airport and accommodation for three nights for two people. Transfers, insurance and visas not included. Entrants agree to take part in publicity if required. The winner will be chosen by a panel of judges from Lexus and the Evening Standard. Competition closes at 23.59 on 21 April 2011. The winner will be notified by phone on 28 April 2011. Promoter: Lexus.

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