The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has recently adopted two new rules for light bulbs, also known as general service lamps that will conserve energy and help consumers save on their energy bills.
The first rule establishes a revised definition of general service lamps while the second implements the minimum standard of 45 lumens per watt for light bulbs that meet the revised definition.
These rules are part of 100 energy efficiency actions the Biden Administration is completing this year, which together will save families $100 every year.
Once these light bulb rules are in place, DOE expects consumers to save nearly $3 billion per year on their utility bills. In addition to delivering significant cost savings for households, schools, and businesses, these energy efficiency actions also advance President Biden’s climate goals.
Over the next 30 years, the rules are projected to cut carbon emissions by 222
million metric tons – an amount equivalent to the emissions generated by 28 million
homes in one year.
LED light bulbs also last 25 to 50 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Describing the merit of these new rules, U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said, “By raising energy efficiency standards for lightbulbs, we’re putting $3 billion back in the pockets of American consumers every year and substantially reducing domestic carbon emissions. 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.”
