I've estimated that i'm running about 7000 lumens in my setup. Yet, I dont think I've taken full advantage of them. From what I've read and seen there wouldnt be much difference between vegging and flowering with fluorescents and hid lights as long as the lumens are the same. I've managed to pull it off with an incredibly inefficient setup, from what i've learned personally. If you have the bucks and space to get a hid, then get a hid, if you dont, the go with the fluorescents. You can be a little more creative with compact fluorescents. Make sure they are color adjusted as well. This is just my take on the whole argument. Oh it has taken in my estimation about 4 mos for my grow. It would problaly be a month less if not for the many mods, mistakes, and general mishaps. :stoned: