New Rules Will End the Century-Long Run of Classic Light Bulbs
New York TimesSep 09, 2022
Biden Admin. to Phase Out Incandescent Bulbs
story
Image copyright: Getty Images [via Washington Post]
The Facts
The US Dept. of Energy (DOE) has adopted new rules to expand energy-efficiency requirements for most types of lightbulbs – effectively phasing out the use of most incandescent and halogen bulbs.
The new rules are intended to shift the country to compact fluorescent and LED bulbs – reversing Trump-era policies. Biden officials project that the changes will cut CO2 emissions by 222m metric tons over the next 30 years - about what 28m homes generate annually.
The Spin
Right narrative
The American people, particularly those in lower income brackets, shouldn't be asked to pay more for lightbulbs in an already teetering economy. Fun Fact: Thomas Edison's traditional lightbulbs work better too.
Left narrative
The Biden administration is fulfilling its promise to overturn Trump's disastrous environmental policies. Despite Trump, US households have largely shifted to LED bulbs anyway, so why not push this movement to the finish line? American consumers can start saving $3 billion per year and carbon emissions can be further reduced.
