on my tanks i use white plastic eggcrate -- the plastic grate , ~3/4" squares, used for modular fluorescent ceiling lights. i trim it to fit into the top, with appropriate extra openings for the filters, and just stand the lamps flat on the plastic, 1 or 2 per tank depending on how bright you want things.
i use spiral cfl's so heat is not an issue -- definitely not recommended if you use incandescent lamps of any type.
unless you're using particularly messy foods, you can feed the fish through the grate without having to open/lift it.