Hmmm....
There are energy saving T5 tubes, there is one company i know of carrying such a product. it is supposed to have the same level of lux as a T8 but half the consumption and there is a warranty period.
One idea is that maybe u can get your contractor to place, small flat mirrors in the cove to throw the lightings maybe it will help to minmise the number of actual light u need to place in. Direct lighting from the light itself and diffused lighting from the mirror should be able to throw a general amount of light around.
