Y2-x-yO3:xBi(3)(vertical bar) ,yEu(3 vertical bar) phosphors were prepared by co-precipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction and photoluminescence spectra. Under the excitation of 320-350 nm ultraviolet light, these phosphors show three emission bands; the one observed at 612 nm is attributed to Eu3+ and the other two bands were found to center at 410 and 490 nm, which originate from Bi3+ P-3(1) --> S-1(0) transitions at two different Y3+ sites. The energy transfer from Bi3+ to Eu3+ is discussed. By appropriate tuning of activator concentration and excitation wavelengths, we obtained white light emission. The results indicate that Y-2 (x) O-y(3):xBi(3+), yEu(3+) are potential phosphors for white light-emitting diode applications. (C) 2011 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/1.3615934] All rights reserved.