Congress in 2007 passed a law setting higher energy efficiency standards. That has led to the phasing out of the production of traditional incandescent bulbs.
On New Year's Day 2013, 75-watt incandescent light bulbs, the now stigmatized energy gluttonous bulb, began its phasing out days. Disconnected. Lights out. Yes, retailers can sell their remaining stock.Manufacturers cannot legally produce any more of these inefficient bulbs.Importers are banned from slipping any more 75 watt bulbs into America.
Although earlier versions looked like props from the TV show Doctor Who, companies such as GE have worked to make their newer models look more like conventional lightbulbs. GE also manufactures floodlight-shaped LEDs for use in recessed fixtures and decorative bulbs for candelabras. Plus, the near-infinite palate of LED colors allows GE to emulate its traditional Reveal and Soft White hues. Meanwhile, another company, Philips, is integrating LED bulbs into connective technology.
As for cost, a GE 60-watt replacement will still set you back around $14 to $15, but it'll last for nearly 14 years under typical use while consuming just 11 watts of power. And you can expect the up-front cost of these bulbs to plummet—to $10 or lower within a year or two—as demand increases and manufacturing processes become more streamlined.
That’s one choice. But it may not be right for you.
The cost of LED bulbs, which can be more than $10 for a 60-watt equivalent, has also been a barrier to consumer adoption. But the introduction of many new products -- the DOE counts over 300 LED A lamps -- has led to widespread price competition.
Boulter said people will have to buy the right bulb for their budget and match it to the right solution. Shoppers are going to have to think about what bulb is the most appropriate one for the application. They will have to decide what color of light they want from a bulb and its use.
But he said in the long run, consumers are going to save money.
“The math is clear. We should have replaced all of the incandescents a year and a half ago,” he said.
