Phasing Out Existing Incandescent Technology:
One of the most controversial provisions in the law is the requirement that starting in 2012, “general service incandescent lamps” (according to the government this means a standard incandescent or halogen type lamp) will have to be at least 30% more energy efficient than today’s incandescent versions.
This phase out of existing technology incandescent bulbs will start with:
- the 100 watt bulb on 1/1/2012;
- the 75 watt bulb on 1/1/2013; and
- the 60 watt and 40 watt bulbs on 1/1/2014.
Does this mean all incandescent light bulbs? No, of course not. Like any government "mandate" there are “Exemptions.”
Why? Well, because the government realizes that CFL’s (which are the only current affordable lighting source that meet these hurdles) have serious functional limitations and cannot be used in many situations, so exceptions are needed.
Let's review these exemptions...
