Using ornamental chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.) as a model plant, a study was conducted on carbon balance analysis to determine the potential of using 2-3 hours of intensive light exposure per day to maintain the plant quality during 16 days storage period. Carbon input/output ratios were ascertained by measuring respiratory carbon losses and photosynthetic carbon inputs. Replacement of respiratory carbon losses (i.e. approx. 95%) using 2-3 hours of light exposure was sufficient to maintain growth attributes (i.e. plant height, leaf area, leaf stem, root and total dry weight).