Yes, you can use the 42w CFL in a standard socket. Ignore the 150 w comparison. Its just marketing hype to say how bright the bulb is. The only factor that concerns you in this instance is the actual wattage used, which in your case is 42w.
doco Reviewed by doco on . CFL Wattage Hi, I would like to get this straight. people are telling me both ways. my questions is when u buy for example a cfl 45w=150w, can u put that light bulb into a normal 60watt lightbulb socket on a lamp? because it only draws out 45w but shines as bright as a 150w indacesent, right? People have told me that i need to match up the second number of wattages (which is indacasent) to the light socket. But it only draws 45w, so whats the harm? I just do not want to burn down my cabinet grow op. Rating: 5