The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently finalized Congressionally-mandated energy efficiency standards for general service lamps (GSLs), which include the most common types of residential and commercial lightbulbs. These standards— which will go into effect in July of 2028 for newly produced bulbs—are expected to save American families $1.6 billion annually on household energy costs, significantly cut energy waste, and slash harmful greenhouse gas pollution. Over 30 years, DOE projects these standards will save Americans more than $27 billion on their utility bills and cut 70 million metric tons of dangerous carbon dioxide emissions—equivalent to the combined annual emissions of over 9 million homes.
“Making common household appliances more efficient is one of the most effective ways to slash energy costs and cut harmful carbon emissions,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Under President Biden and as directed by Congress, DOE is following the lead of lightbulb manufacturers, helping American families flip the switch on massive energy savings through strengthened energy efficiency standards.”