Abstract: Start-up and re-ignition of a high pressure arc lamp are aided by injection of electrons toward a high pressure arc lamp electrode. A microdischarge device directs electrons toward an electrode of the arc lamp and is preferably turned off during normal operation of the arc lamp. The harsh environment of an arc lamp requires the microdischarge to be made from robust materials, such as ceramics, semiconductors or tungsten, for example. In the present invention, the discharge design must allow, preferably through a screen anode, for the escape of electrons from the microdischarge. This invention results in a decrease in the voltage required to start-up or re-ignite a lamp.