Light bulb standards begin taking effect in 2012

On January 1, 2012, efficiency standards will start taking effect for brighter, higher-wattage general service bulbs. Based on its light output of about 1,600 lumens, a typical 100-Watt incandescent bulb falls in the first group affected. In the subsequent two years, the legislation will affect groups of relatively dimmer, lower-wattage bulbs.

On January 1, 2012, efficiency standards will start taking effect for brighter, higher-wattage general service bulbs. Based on its light output of about 1,600 lumens, a typical 100-Watt incandescent bulb falls in the first group affected. In the subsequent two years, the legislation will affect groups of relatively dimmer, lower-wattage bulbs. By 2014, most general use bulbs available for purchase will be required to be at least 30% more efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. These standards, set by Congress in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA), have already led to significant market transformation for common light bulbs.