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California preceded the nation by a year when it started phasing out 100 watt incandescent bulbs as of January 1, 2011. Incandescent bulbs require much more energy to power than either halogen incandescent, compact fluorescent or LED bulbs. The new choices available to consumers must use no more than 72 watts of power.

Dictated by the Energy Independence and Security Act signed in to law by President George W. Bush in 2007, the goal is to reduce national energy use and decrease emissions. The 75 watt, 60 watt and 40 watt bulbs that are currently still on the shelves will be phased out over the next 3 years. Some bulbs, such as yellow bug lights and aquarium bulbs will still be available.

Protests are Starting

In a slumped economy people have expressed some degree of anger over the ensuing change. Incandescent bulbs only cost about $1 a piece, whereas CFL bulbs cost 2-3 times that and LED bulbs can easily hit $20 each. For some people that will mean choosing between no light and spending more than they can afford.

Furthermore, people complain that CFL bulbs, which are quickly becoming the standard replacement, are slow to achieve their full lighting potential. This problem is being addressed and one option may be a combined hybrid that employs both compact fluorescent technology and halogen lighting.

Representative Joe Barton R-Texas is working hard to have the legislation repealed. On his website he explains that he feels people don't want their government to dictate their lighting choices.

The Future is Unavoidable

Unfortunately for protesters the fact remains that way too much energy is spent on powering light bulbs both in commercial settings and in the home. Up to 90% of the energy used to power an incandescent bulb is expended in the form of heat - which leads to secondary expenses through increased cooling costs. Whether the transition takes place now or in a few years is of little importance - the transition is inevitable.

Prices on LED bulbs continue to drop. A year ago you could expect to pay $50-$100 per bulb, now you can obtain them for under $20. The technology has improved as well, with softer shades of light and more options. The wise individual will begin switching over, one bulb at a time if needed, and enjoy the significant savings sooner.

Michael Rupkalvis works with the LedBulbsandLights website. The site features a variety of different types of environmentally-friendly LED products, including Pin LED lights and other LED bulbs.

¡¡Feliz Cumpleaños Fran y Raul!!