Despite defunding, switch to energy-saving bulbs is on

The phase-out of energy-wasting incandescent lightbulbs continues to ignite debate. In fact, the federal spending bill hurriedly passed by Congress this weekend includes a rider that strips the Department of Energy of funding to enforce the new energy-efficiency lightbulb standards that take effect January 1.

The rider doesn't repeal the nationwide standards, but without enforcement, noncompliant products may turn up on store shelves, confusing consumers and slowing the transition to energy-efficient lighting. The rider imposes these limitations on the DOE for the fiscal year ending September 30. "People are really paying attention to the reach of government," says Rep. Michael C. Burgess (R-Texas). "The lightbulb is a pretty small victory, but a victory."

The Natural Resources Defense Council doesn't see any practical consequences resulting, says Noah Horowitz, a senior scientist, who stresses that consumers now have more choices in lighting. "Its mind-boggling that a handful of politicians are still trying to preserve the 125-year-old incandescent light bulb that is arguably the least efficient product in our homes," added Horowitz in an e-mail. "While the old 100-watt light bulb only costs a quarter, it's no bargain as it uses $10 worth of electricity to operate."

President George W. Bush signed the lightbulb standards into law in 2007. Most screw-in based bulbs are required to use at least 27 percent less energy by 2014. Compact fluorescents, light-emitting diodes and some halogen bulbs meet the standard; traditional incandescents do not. The phase out begins on January 1, when 100-watt bulbs can no longer be made or imported, but can be sold until supplies run out. The 75-watt fades away in 2013, and a year later it's lights out for 60- and 40-watt incandescents. U.S. manufacturers have invested heavily in developing energy-efficient lighting to meet the new standards, and will comply with the law, says Kyle Pitsor, vice president of government affairs for the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, a trade group representing most U.S. lighting manufacturers.

The takeaway: When shopping for energy-saving lightbulbs, check the Lighting Facts label on the package. It states brightness, energy use, estimated energy costs, expected life, light color, and whether the bulb contains mercury (as CFLs do). And to find the best bulb for the socket, see our comprehensive Ratings of energy-saving CFLs, LEDs and halogen bulbs.

—Kimberly Janeway