Biden’s lightbulb ban now in effect.
The Biden Administration’s New Lightbulb Efficiency Rule Takes Effect
The Biden administration’s new lightbulb efficiency rule takes effect on Tuesday, marking a significant shift towards more energy-friendly alternatives. The rule effectively prohibits the sale of all new incandescent bulbs, encouraging consumers to opt for more efficient sources of lighting.
What the Rule Entails
The Department of Energy announced the new lightbulb efficiency regulations last April. Under these regulations, all bulbs sold by retailers must produce a minimum of 45 lumens per watt. Certain appliances, like microwaves, are exempt from this requirement.
As a result, consumers will be limited to purchasing energy-efficient options such as LED bulbs. While LED bulbs have a higher upfront cost, they last approximately 15 to 20 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
Environmental and Financial Benefits
The Department of Energy estimates that over the next 30 years, the lightbulb efficiency standard will reduce carbon emissions by 222 metric tons. This is equivalent to the emissions generated by 28 million homes in a year.
Additionally, consumers are expected to save nearly $3 billion per year on their utility bills as a result of this rule.
Industry Response and Transition Period
When the rule was announced in 2022, incandescent bulbs still accounted for around 30% of the retail market. Some groups, including the American Lighting Association, criticized the rule, advocating for a slower rollout to prevent potential financial losses for manufacturers and retailers.
Regulators, however, have provided over a year of notice to allow retailers and manufacturers to comply with the rule and sell their existing supply of low-watt bulbs.
Energy Secretary’s Statement
“By raising energy efficiency standards for lightbulbs, we’re putting $3 billion back in the pockets of American consumers and substantially reducing domestic carbon emissions,” said Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm in a statement.
“The lighting industry is already embracing more energy-efficient products, and this measure will accelerate progress to deliver the best products to American consumers and build a better and brighter future,” Granholm added.
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