The U.S. government is reigniting its commitment to LEDs.

In April, the Department of Energy (DOE)  finalized energy efficiency for General Service Lamps (GSLs), which encompasses the most common commercial and residential lighting. The new guidelines will lower electricity costs for all consumers who take advantage of the new lightbulbs. 

How will new Lighting Standards Impact You? 

Outside of the Marvel Universe, the DOE is in charge of setting energy efficiency standards that reflect evolving lighting technology. They set new lighting standards in 2007 that were impossible to meet with CFLs. They updated the requirements further in 2024 to include the most advanced lightbulb options. 

In 2022, the DOE proposed a plan to phase out older incandescent bulbs in favor of LEDs. The agency updated the standards so LEDs must now offer 120 lumens per watt, a huge jump from the previously required 45 lumens per watt. 

These standards will not be required until July, 2028. But, why wait? The DOE predicts that the new electricity standards will help consumers save $27 billion on their utility bills and avoid 70 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions. They apply only to newly-produced lightbulbs. 

Why does the U.S. Government Care?

By meeting, and eventually exceeding, the DOE’s standards, LED bulbs contribute to significant energy savings, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and overall environmental sustainability while also providing enhanced lighting quality and user experience.

 As these standards evolve, LED technology continues to innovate and adapt to meet the ever-growing demand for efficient and sustainable lighting solutions.

Shop the latest and greatest LEDs today with What Watt to help you achieve your lighting goals. 

Get Lit with What Watt! Reach out to Whatwatt.com today.