Light-Bulb Efficiency Standards Should Stay Strong

Press Release

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree voted against an unsuccessful measure to repeal light-bulb efficiency standards. The legislation did not pass in the House.

"I wish we were talking about efforts to create jobs and spur the economy. Instead we're considering repealing standards that passed with bipartisan support and save consumers $12 billion a year," said Pingree. "How out of tune can these priorities be? This backwards repeal would only hurt families in a tough economy and a country trying to break its dependence on foreign oil. It's a waste of time when we have much more important issues to deal with."

Enacted in 2007, the standards require light bulbs to use 25-30 percent less energy than before. Manufacturers have between 2012 and 2014 to meet the standards, but the efficiency rules have already provided an incentive for companies to develop products that last longer, use less energy, and are far less expensive to operate than conventional bulbs. New products include lines of CFLs, LEDs, and efficient incandescent lights.

For 10,000 hours of light, the total cost (bulb plus electricity) of a 14-watt CFL is $15.85, compared to $64.78 with conventional incandescent bulbs.

"It's an untrue myth that these standards ban incandescent bulbs. There are already several incandescent bulbs on the market that meet the efficiency standards--and save 30 percent the energy," said Pingree. "Light-bulb manufacturers have attested that the standards have directly led them to develop more efficient products and provide consumers with more options. This is about making sure that families have plenty of choices to help them save money every day."

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