Autoflower electricity saving lighting question.

So we all know that the proper autoflowering strains will flower under most any light. Its also assumed the more light the better. A 24 hour 400w hps will rack up a bill(not insane but higher) pretty quick.

So my theoretical solution.

Run the hps system for 14-18 hours depending on how much juice you want to save. Then for the remaining 6-10 hours run a few (4 23w) Cfls or other fluorescent lights. The system would be on a timer with a little overlap to avoid a dark period, hps clicks off flor is already on, visa versa.

So.. would this be a good balance of energy savings and full light? or would it just be too odd of a cycle (differing intensities) for the plant to really take any additional growth over a straight 18/6

Anyone know of any links to controlled testing of different light patterns on same strain/soil?

Not familiar with studies about light intensity changing for a 24 hour period, but what you are describing won't hurt the plant. However, if you are looking to save money the best thing to do would be to just leave the lights off for the 6 hours.

yeah that is how i have it now, i am just trying to find if the plants would continue to grow during the hid off cfl on time. thanks