Upcoming lighting changes
The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) was signed into law in 2007 to help Americans get more for
their energy dollar. Part of the law set lighting efficiency standards that were scheduled to begin in 2012, and
required that all lighting be 30% more efficient than today's incandescent bulbs by 2014. While enforcement of the
standards has been delayed, manufacturers are still moving towards meeting these targets.
No. You will still be able to buy incandescent bulbs that look and operate like the ones you are used to –
they will just use less energy.
The law also requires new labels to help you choose the most
efficient lighting, like LEDs and CFLs.
All lighting packages will have labels that tell you what you need to know, similar to nutrition labels on
food.
Follow three simple steps when reading the label:
- Choose lighting based on the brightness. This is measured in lumens. The higher the
lumens, the brighter the light.
- Determine which product has the lowest estimated energy cost per year. These will save you the
most money.
- Finally, choose the other features you prefer, such as lifetime and light appearance. Look for the ENERGY
STAR® logo on the label for CFLs and LEDs that meet minimum efficiency, lifetime and quality
standards. Remember to also look for the Simple
Steps, Smart Savings logo to receive EWEB's in-store discount on ENERGY STAR qualified
CFLs.
Watch a video from the Federal Trade Commission about shopping for lighting:
