A record 567 designers, architects, engineering professionals and students took on Eskom's challenge to integrate energy efficient lighting sources into outstanding design solutions. Each entrant assembled a working lighting fixture designed specifically for energy efficient lamps.

"We are delighted by the large number of high quality entries that offer exciting new options and creative design solutions for energy efficient lighting in the future," says Barry Bredenkamp of the Eskom Energy Efficient Lighting Design Competition (EELDC) steering committee. "This competition will also encourage and inspire designers, architects and engineers to integrate energy efficiency into their work for the rest of their careers," adds Bredenkamp.

Students had to design lighting fixtures for residential use and the winning student will receive R30 000, with R20 000 for the runner-up and R10 000 for the third place winner. There is also a cash prize of R10 000 for the institution at which the winning student is enrolled. Ten most promising previously disadvantaged designers will win R1000 each.

Professionals competed in the Innovative Energy Efficient Lighting Design category and the winner will receive R30 000.

A panel of top judges will meet during August and September at different regional expos to face the difficult task of selecting the winners based on criteria such as aesthetics, innovation, uniqueness, cost-effectiveness, manufacturing, marketing and job creation potential and overall energy efficiency.

Entries came from university lecturers and students, as well as professional interior designers, architects, electrical contractors, lighting specialists and engineers across the country, from as far a field as Langebaan, Hoedspruit, Betlehem, Sedgefield, Newcastle, Kamberg and Boknesstrand.

The final judging of participants takes place at Radiant Lighting in Johannesburg on 21 September 2010 where semi-finalists have to present their lamps to a panel of judges. Eskom will announce the winners at the eta awards ceremony to be held in Johannesburg on 4 November 2010. At this event the winning luminaires, as well as some of the other most innovative and creative entries, will be displayed to showcase local talent in energy efficient lighting design solutions.