Need help with lighting project!!

[Seasand]

I`m thinking of building a new hood for my 50 Gal tank. ( tank size = 542 L x 12" W x 18" H )
I am thinking of putting in CFL system so my questions are as follows:

1. How many bulbs and what wattage?
2. What type of ballasts
3. Where can I get bulbs, fittings, ballasts etc. from that will ship to Scotland all for a reasonable price.

Over here it will cost me roughly between $30 / $40 for a 15watt cfl which is very expensive compared to America and other places in the world!!!

Would be very appreciative for any help regarding this...

Cheers!!

 

[Mgamer20o0]

its because here the gov or energy companies supplement the price. cfl dont need a ballast they are built in the bulb. really they are not too efficient. you might want to looking at just ordering a t5 ho set up. if you are set on clf system your local hardware store should have everything you need.

 

[Seasand]

its because here the gov or energy companies supplement the price. cfl dont need a ballast they are built in the bulb. really they are not too efficient. you might want to looking at just ordering a t5 ho set up. if you are set on clf system your local hardware store should have everything you need.

If I were to go for T5 HO, can you suggest what I would require for my size of tank.
It is quite well planted.