Consumers Still Buying 100W Incandescent Lamps Under Regulatory Loophole

The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 regulated 40-100W incandescent general-service lamps, requiring the lamp to either operate at a higher efficacy or cease being able to be manufactured or imported. In 2012, 100W lamps became affected; in 2013, 75W lamps are now under regulation.

For those wishing to retain incandescent lamps, there are two main options. First, one could simply buy a halogen screw-in lamp and save energy while retaining similar performance as an incandescent lamp. Second, one could buy a lamp that fits one of the regulatory exceptions.

One of these exceptions is for rough-service lamps. Among other manufacturers, AAMSCO sells rough-service commercial-grade incandescent lamps under the Ferrowatt brand and sells them direct to consumers. They are also rated at 10,000 hours. These lamps carry a premium.

To learn more, check out this Home Channel News story here.

The Department of Energy has been tasked with monitoring sales of exempt lamps and closing any loophole that is excessively used, indicating consumers are using it to bypass the Act.

Craig DiLouie

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