Lighting Energy Efficiency Standards

Energy efficiency standards require lightbulbs to consume less electricity (watts) for the amount of light produced (lumens). In September 2000, the U.S. Department of Energy announced the adoption of standards to improve the energy efficiency of fluorescent lamp ballasts in commercial and industrial applications based on an agreement between the lighting industry and energy efficiency advocates. The standards went into effect on 1 April 2005. After that time, fluorescent lamp ballasts produced by lighting manufacturers for commercial and industrial new construction or the renovation market had to be electronic ballasts that meet the new standards. Magnetic ballasts were available until 2010 for building owners to maintain current systems. More stringent standards were set by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. As of 1 January 2012, traditional 100W incandescent lightbulbs do not meet the standards and are no longer available at most stores. Similar standards were phased in for other types of lightbulbs over three years. Traditional 75W incandescent lightbulbs were no longer be available as of 1 January 1 2013. Traditional 40W and 60W incandescent lightbulbs are no longer available as of 1 January 2014.

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