Since the introduction in the 1930's, FTLs have been operated with conventional electromagnetic ballasts.

Conventional electromagnetic ballasts generate substantial energy losses and operate with poor power factor. Excessive heat, noise and flickering are the inherent problematic behavior. Being economical and stable, conventional electromagnetic ballasts continue to be commonly deployed, despite such shortcomings.

In fluorescent lighting, a ballast generates an electric arc that reacts with an electroreactive gas inside the lamp tube.This produces radiant energy, which causes a phosphor coating on the inside of the lamp to give off light. After the initial charge, the amount of current needed to maintain illumination drops, and the ballast continues operating as a voltage regulator for the lamp. (Ballasts work in a similar way in high intensity discharge lamps, in which an electrical current passes through a high-pressure gas.) Two basic ballast technologies are available: magnetic and electronic. Electronic models are recommended, because they are significantly more energy efficient and improve lighting performance.

Conventional Ballasts are inefficient

High frequency electronic ballasts are designed to replace the functions of conventional electromagnetic ballasts in a more efficient manner. Electronic ballasts consume substantially less energy than conventional electromagnetic ballasts, and operate at near optimal power factors. Peak power demand can be reduced by as much as 50%. They also enhance the performance of FTLs, whereby their efficacy can be increased by about 10% when operated at higher frequencies. Together with lower ballast losses, system efficacy is improved by as much as 30%.

• Energy savings between 20-30%;
• Higher power factor;
• Increased lamp life;
• Instant startup without flickering;
• Quiet operation;
• No visible flicker during operation;
• No stroboscopic effect and;
• Lower total harmonic distortion (THD).

Indeed the European Parliament aims to have all conventional electromagnetic ballasts phased out and replaced with energy saving electronic ballasts within the European Union by 2005.

Despite the growing demand to conserve energy, relatively high costs hinder the market penetration of common electronic ballasts . Not only does it involve the capital cost of the electronic ballast itself, but the entire cabling system for the lighting fixture also has to be modified by qualified electricians. Moreover, considerably long installation time for replacement of existing conventional electromagnetic ballast also disrupts normal operations of facilities. The application of common electronic ballasts will only be commercially viable in limited cases.

Electronic Ballasts save energy but with expensive wiring costs