Currently in the Russian market appeared a large number of light sources and lighting devices of different manufacturers. This creates great difficulties for selecting the most energy-efficient and reliable light sources. To solve the problem, we propose the concept of estimating the life cycle cost. In the article the technique of an economic choice of lighting devices on the basis of "life cycle cost" depending on the hours of lighting per year. The calculations for retrofit (standard and halogen incandescent, compact fluorescent and led lamps) and linear (office fixtures with fluorescent lamps as well as similar led) lighting devices. The calculations are performed taking into account the discounting. Identified the most cost-effective sources of indoor lighting for public and municipal institutions, depending on the hours of lighting per year.

Keywords: the choice of lighting, life cycle cost, economic analysis