A high efficiency lighting system maintains normal lighting conditions by lighting fixtures requiring DC electrical power. A power control device receives AC electrical power from a public utility converts AC power to DC power and delivers low voltage DC electrical power to lighting fixtures. A standby battery is provided to maintain power during power outages. Optionally, a photovoltaic DC electrical power source may be connected to the power control device, to provide alternate DC electrical power. In a further embodiment, a gas driven cogenerator unit may supply DC electrical power.