The lighting industry is on the verge of a significant transformation. As of April 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) introduced a final rule that sets new energy efficiency standards for General Service Lamps (GSLs), which will take effect in July 2028. These standards will reshape the market, phasing out noncompliant incandescent and halogen lamps while solidifying LED technology as the dominant lighting solution.
The shift toward more energy-efficient lighting has been a long time coming. Over the past two decades, we’ve seen the rise of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and, more recently, LEDs as alternatives to traditional incandescent bulbs. However, the new DOE rule marks a decisive step in this journey, setting stringent energy conservation standards that will impact homes, businesses, and industries alike. As noncompliant lamps are gradually phased out, solid-state lighting (SSL) will become the standard, making LED lighting more important than ever for business owners and consumers looking to reduce energy consumption and lower costs.
What the New Rule Entails:
The final rule, issued by the DOE in 2024, applies to GSLs, which include common lamps used in both residential and commercial settings. By July 2028, all new GSLs manufactured or imported into the U.S. must comply with rigorous energy efficiency standards. These lamps are defined by several characteristics, including their screwbase, light output range (310-3,300 lumens), and general service applications. Specialty lamps, such as black lights or marine lamps, remain exempt from these regulations.
One key aspect of the new rule is the required efficacy level of around 125 lumens per watt for typical omnidirectional GSLs. This high standard surpasses that of older technologies like CFLs, which have already seen a dramatic decline in the market. By the first quarter of 2022, CFLs accounted for less than 1% of the consumer lamp market, a trend that is likely to continue as energy-efficient LEDs dominate the market.
The Implications for Businesses and Consumers:
For businesses, especially those in retail, hospitality, or manufacturing, the new DOE standards present both challenges and opportunities. The gradual elimination of inefficient lighting products will drive the need for upgraded lighting systems. Those who make the switch early will benefit from significant cost savings in energy consumption and maintenance.
For consumers, the transition means an end to familiar incandescent and halogen bulbs. However, the change will ultimately lead to long-term savings, as LEDs offer far greater efficiency, a longer lifespan, and reduced environmental impact. While noncompliant lamps may still be available for sale until inventories are depleted, businesses and individuals will need to plan ahead for the full transition by 2028.
What This Means for Lighting Professionals and Contractors:
For lighting professionals and electrical contractors, staying informed about these changes is critical. Understanding the new requirements will not only help you advise your clients on the best lighting solutions but also position your business as an expert in energy-efficient upgrades.
This is where Black Dragon Technologies can assist. We specialize in guiding businesses through technological transitions, and lighting is no exception. From product selection to system design and installation, we ensure compliance with the latest standards while maximizing energy savings for your business.
The DOE’s final rule on GSLs is set to usher in a new era of lighting efficiency, solidifying the role of LEDs in homes and businesses across the U.S. As noncompliant lamps are phased out by 2028, the market will move toward higher energy savings, cost reductions, and environmental sustainability. For those looking to get ahead of the curve, now is the time to begin planning for this transition.
Black Dragon Technologies is here to help you navigate the evolving lighting landscape and ensure that your business is equipped with the most efficient and compliant solutions.
By focusing on energy-efficient lighting today, you’re not just meeting the upcoming standards—you’re future-proofing your business for tomorrow. If you’re looking for a source for commercial LED lighting, give us a call, and we can help you find the perfect solutions for your needs.
For more detailed information on the new DOE standards, you can view the full document here.
