New Light Bulb Law (Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007) - The Basics

The law:

• does not ban the use or purchase of incandescent bulbs.
• does not ban the sale or manufacture of ALL incandescent bulbs, just those common household incandescent (and other) bulbs that are not energy-efficient.
• does not require the use of compact fluorescent bulbs.
• requires about 25 percent greater efficiency (that is, less energy use) for household light bulbs that have traditionally used between 40 and 100 watts of electricity.
• exempts many bulbs, including specialty bulbs, three-way bulbs, chandelier bulbs, refrigerator bulbs, plant grow lights and others.
• was passed by Congress and signed by President Bush in 2007 and is implemented by the U.S. Department of Energy.
• includes many other provisions that do not pertain to lighting. Some of these provisions call for: higher gas mileage in automobiles; transportation electrification; increased reliance on biofuels; and training for green jobs.
• View more information about the new "light bulb law" from:
  
  • EnergyStar.gov (PDF) (5 pp, 336 K, About PDF)
  • U.S. Department of Energy
  • National Electrical Manufacturers Association Exit Disclaimer Exit