Video: LED light help light the way to the future

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Did you remember to turn off your "light-emitting diodes" today?

You may know them better as LED's.

You may plug them in this holiday season and never even realize you are helping light the way to the future.

"LED holiday lights, these will save you 95 percent on your electric bill," said Tom Watson, King County EcoConsumer.

LED lights not only use less power and they last longer. But they aren't the smart choice just for the holidays.

"This is an LED light bulb, this is the light bulb of the future," he said.

LED's have got a bright future, but they are in their infant stage compared to traditional and energy saving compact fluorescent lights, so they cost more, But they are catching on fast.

"We were looking for a nightlight that wasn't electricity powered, but battery powered," said Daniel Abenhaim.

Abenheim found his solution in this battery operated, motion detecting LED.

When you enter a dark room or hallway, it lights up, and seconds after you leave, it goes dark.

Most of these run on common AAA batteries that can hold a charge for months. They're ideal for lighting up hallways, bathrooms and closets but they do have some weaknesses.

"Keep in mind these little devices are low in light output. They aren't like a table lamp, you're not going to read by them," said Terry McGown, American Lighting Association.

But they work during power outages and they have no mercury, so they are safer to throw away than fluorescents. And experts say using them inside and out could save average users $10 per month in energy costs.

Standard LED light bulbs can cost up $40, but holiday lights are competitively priced, and motion-detecting battery LED's can be found in most hardware stores for $10 to $20 each.