"Say Goodbye to Incandescent Light Bulbs: Understanding the New Energy Efficiency Rules"

New energy efficiency rules have taken effect in the United States, prohibiting the sale of most incandescent light bulbs. The rules require light bulbs to meet a minimum standard of producing 45 lumens per watt, effectively favoring LED lights. LED lights have already contributed to lower electricity demand and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The Department of Energy estimates that Americans will collectively save nearly $3 billion annually on utility bills with the new rules in place. The shift to LED lights is expected to have little fanfare as most retailers have already removed inefficient bulbs from their shelves. The regulations will also cut carbon dioxide emissions by 222 million metric tons over the next three decades.