L Prize Contestant Now Undergoing Photometric Testing

In September 2009, the Department of Energy received the first entry in the L Prize competition, an LED replacement for the 60W incandescent bulb from Philips Electronics. Philips’ entry is now undergoing photometric testing at independent laboratories. This performance testing will verify that the product submitted meets the L Prize specifications for the 60W replacement, including:

* Efficacy > 90 lumens/W
* Power draw < 10W * Output > 900 lumens
* CRI > 90
* Color temperature 2700-3000K (warm white)

The photometric testing should be completed this month and then it’s on to long-term lumen maintenance testing and field assessments.

When will the results be announced? October/November 2010, at the earliest.

While Philips was first, the contest is far from over, though. More entries are expected by DOE, which will award up to three winners in the 60W category.

The first to meet all competition requirements will receive the cash prize; all three winners will be eligible for federal purchasing opportunities and promotions and incentives offered by the L Prize partners.

Craig DiLouie

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