Lighting Manufacturers Ask for Changes to Proposed DOE Light Bulb Rule

In written comments filed with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), U.S. lighting manufacturers said consumers should have multiple options when selecting the type of light bulbs to purchase. NEMA’s comments took issue with requirements in a proposed energy efficiency rule aimed at forcing the exclusive adoption of LED bulbs.

The proposed rule would implement an efficiency standard for general-service lamps that would effectively eliminate energy-efficient halogen bulbs, compact-fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and many specialty incandescent bulbs starting in 2020.

“The speed with which prices for common LED bulbs have declined and the corresponding consumer acceptance of this technology have exceeded manufacturers’ expectations,” said NEMA president and CEO Kevin Cosgriff. “Based on current trends, which we expect to continue, the LED lamp is expected to replace most general-service CFL and halogen bulbs in the coming years. Importantly, this will occur without any unnecessary governmental action.”

In its comments, NEMA encouraged the DOE to adopt new energy conservation standards for general-service LED lamps and some specialty lamps where it was economically justified and technologically feasible.

The DOE will publish the final ruling before Jan. 1, 2017.

More information here: Electrical Manufacturers Present Pro-consumer, Energy-Efficient Solutions for DOE Light Bulb Rule