The Department of Energy has announced new rules to phase incandescent light bulbs out of production and sale before a ban take effect in 2023, something they've been trying to do since 2007. The rules state that bulbs must have a minimum efficiency of 45 lumens per watt — a measurement of how much light is produced for a unit of electricity. The average incandescent bulb produces 15 lumens per watt, while LED lighting ranges up to 150 lumens per watt. The move should cut carbon emissions by 222 million metric tons over the next 30 years and will save consumers $3 million per year on utility statements. Good quality LED products last 30,000 to 50,000 hours longer, while an incandescent lamp only lasts about 1,000 hours. Light bulb manufacturers say pivoting away from incandescent bulbs too quickly would damage their bottom line and already-manufactured bulbs would presumably be destined for landfills.
