May 21, 2021   

D.O.E. Contemplates a New U.S. Light Bulb Standard

2021 05 doe 45w light bulb.jpg

Will the U.S. implement a 45 Lumens/Watt standard for A-lamps?

 

Citing the potential of consumers saving nearly 30% on lighting bills, the U.S. Department of Energy (D.O.E.) has announced that it is taking initial steps to evaluate a standard that would require light bulbs to have a minimum efficacy of 45 Lumens/Watt. The D.O.E. has issued a request for information (RFI) that seeks input from manufacturers, retailers, consumers, and other stakeholders across the supply chain about the current lighting marketplace.

The RFI seeks information regarding the availability of general service lamps with a 45 lumen-per-watt efficacy standard. DOE will use the feedback from the RFI to consider the impact on consumers and stakeholders of any implementation of that standard, with DOE seeking to ensure that consumers continue to have lamps that meet their needs for all their lighting applications.

In 2018, California was the first to implement a 45 Lumens/Watt restriction on A-shape general service lamps. The state has fought to maintain its state's rights to maintain the ban with the help of Title 20. With California as a case study in progress, the D.O.E. will further explore if the regulation should be applied nationwide.

Today's consumer LED A-lamps consistently deliver efficacies greater than 80 Lumens/Watt, even at 2700K. Some warm-colored LED filament bulbs in the range of 2100K may have a challenge meeting the proposed standard, that is, if those types of lamps are classified as general service lamps.  A full list of exclusions is cited in the RFI -- link below.

Since the vast majority of LED lamps would meet the efficacy threshold, this proposed standard would put pressure on, and likely eliminate, the vast majority of other A-lamp light sources on retailers' shelves including CFL, halogen and incandescent.

“Energy efficiency standards are some of the most direct and effective tools we have to save consumers money on their electric bills and to fight climate change. Strengthening light bulb efficiency standards to minimize energy usage will bring us closer to achieving our vision for a cleaner and more efficient economy,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Kelly Speakes-Backman. “This initial effort to hear from stakeholders will guide EERE on our next steps to drive energy and cost savings for the American consumer.”

According to the D.O.E. electricity used for lighting still costs Americans $7.4 billion annually, which is why DOE is initiating this RFI, to consider whether current rules adequately meet the needs of the American people.

 

More Info:  D.O.E. May 20, 2021 Request for Information >>

 

 

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