New light bulb law means new choices for consumers Published Jan. 24, 2012 Austin -- -- On January 1, 2012, a new federal light bulb law took effect. The law, which was part of large spending bill passed by Congress, requires light bulbs to be more energy efficient. This includes the older incandescent bulbs, as well as the newer compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs. The law does not ban incandescent bulbs. The Consumer Federation of America and Consumers Union recently released a simple guide to help consumers understand the numerous, new, efficient lighting choices they will have under the new law. The two-page guide, titled How Many Tips Does It Take to Change a Light Bulb?, provides helpful tips and advice on subjects such as understanding lumens and brightness, checking for dimmability and compatibility, addressing mercury concerns, and other topics. According to the CFA and CU, the guide provides everything needed to make a smart, sensible light bulb choice. Visit the OPUC Energy Efficiency webpage atwww.opc.state.tx.us/energyefficiency.html#lightbulb for more information and resources.
