Abstract: An energy-efficient lighting apparatus that includes a lighting fixture. The lighting fixture includes a multi-functional ballast and one or more fluorescent lights. The lighting fixture may also operate one or more fluorescent lamps. One or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) may also be used. The LEDs may be located on the ballast tray cover or on any illuminating surface of the fixture and may also be located remote from the ballast. The one or more LEDs are in low-voltage communication with the ballast. The ballast allows the system to switch from a high voltage setting (which is used when the fluorescent lights are illuminated) to low voltage setting (which is used when the LEDs are illuminated). This lighting system provides work/task lighting for the users of the building.

Abstract: A new lighting system is disclosed that may be used as an emergency lighting system, a night lighting system, and as a security lighting system. The lighting system includes a plurality of lights that are installed in a building. These lights are attached to low-voltages wires. In turn, the wires are attached to a control unit which includes timers and a controller. The controller is designed such that it may turn individual lights on and off at specified times during the day. Likewise, the system in constructed such that in the event of a power outage or other emergency, lights in the system will turn on and indicating to the building occupants where the building exits are located.

Abstract: An energy-efficient lighting apparatus is disclosed. The lighting apparatus includes a ballast cover. The ballast cover includes a plurality of ballast cover holes. The lighting apparatus also includes a circuit board comprising a plurality of light-emitting diodes. The circuit board is positioned adjacent the ballast cover so that the plurality of light-emitting diodes protrude through the plurality of ballast cover holes in the ballast cover. The lighting apparatus may also include a battery for supplying power to the plurality of light-emitting diodes.