Make an energy resolution this year. Try a CFL.

Okay, so you probably already made your New Year's resolution. But here's a energy-conscious additional resolution you might want to consider: switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs, or CFLs.

Take a look at this New York Times article (splashed on today's front page) about Wal-Mart's campaign to sell 100 million of these super-efficient, swirl-shaped light bulbs this year.

So far, CFL's have been a hard sell. Consumers don't like them because they are eight times more expensive than conventional incandescant bulbs, are cumbersome in shape and give off a harsher light. But when you look at the economics of CFLs, the efficiency saving is significant:

A compact fluorescent uses 75 percent less electricity, lasts 10 times longer, produces 450 pounds fewer greenhouse gases from power plants and saves consumers $30 over the life of each bulb, according to NYT reporter, Michael Barbaro.

Click here to read the NYT article.

Click here for an educational video about CFLs.