The phasing out of the incandescent light bulb
Beginning in 2012 (or 2011 in California) the manufacture of traditional
incandescent light bulbs will be phased out, with a targeted completion date of 2014.
First to go will be the 100-watt bulb – as of Jan 1st it will no longer be manufactured
for use in the United States. Each successive year the 75-watt, then the 60-watt, and
finally the 40-watt light bulb will be removed from manufacture.
(Note: Updated versions of these light bulbs are simply going to become more
energy efficient thru the use of halogen technology. Already available on the market,
the new light bulbs are a similar shape and can be dimmed just like the traditional
incandescent bulbs.)
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has published a
brochure that clarifies the upcoming transition to energy-efficient lighting. Based on
the average number of sockets per household, NEMA estimates that American
households will save an average of $143 on electric bills when the transition is
complete. This figure assumes an electrical rate of $0.11/kWh.
Lighting Options for Your Home (PDF) summarizes the 2007 Energy Independence
and Security Act, which mandates reductions in energy use and greenhouse gas
emissions, and explains how the changeover from incandescent lamps will help
accomplish the country’s sustainability goals.
Alternate options for lighting homes and offices include halogen, compact
fluorescent, and LED light sources, each of which is explained in detail.
For more information on lighting legislation and saving energy through lighting
upgrades, visit www.nemasavesenergy.org. Or to request a hard copy of the
brochure, contact communications@nema.org
