Lowtech Graph lists low-tech options for every need of a home. Here you can compare them, find tutorials to build them, and link them together into a circular system. Why low-tech?
LED lighting
Needs the grid
One of 2 ways to meet this need. Cost, carbon, footprint and rankings are relative to other solutions for the same need, not absolute.
Light bulbs and fittings that make light with light-emitting diodes. They give the same light as old bulbs for a fraction of the electricity and last far longer. Because they use so little power, they can run directly from a small solar and battery system.
Levels are relative to the other options for this need, not absolute. Fewer dots is lighter.
LED lighting (This page) Can I use it? Works in a flat · No rebuilding needed What does it cost me? Upfront cost: Low · Skill to build: Basic · Upkeep: Light · Change to daily life: None · Works without the grid: No Choose it if you want the same light for a fraction of the electricity, even from a small solar system.
Gravity-powered lamp Can I use it? Works in a flat · No rebuilding needed What does it cost me? Upfront cost: Low · Skill to build: Intermediate · Upkeep: None · Change to daily life: Daily · Works without the grid: Yes Choose it if you want light with no battery, grid or sun, and no fumes.
We don’t list sizing or quantities, as the yield of each technique depends on the quality of its build. The catalogue compares options but doesn’t dimension them. Regulatory notes are indicative, with a French example, and need to be confirmed locally.