EPA launches effort to encourage switch to LED light bulbs

The Environmental Protection Agency is encouraging Americans to swap out their light bulbs for Energy Star certified LED bulbs, which can save consumers on energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The push, with a goal of swapping out 300 million bulbs this year, marked the launch of a yearlong campaign, “Light the Moment with Energy Star,” through which the EPA hopes to educate Americans on the benefits of Energy Star LED bulbs.

According to the agency, LED bulbs last at least 15 times longer than traditional bulbs and use up to 90 percent less electricity. With each bulb representing potential energy savings of $55 dollars over its 12-year lifetime, the agency estimates that changing out 300 million bulbs would result in $1.5 billion in energy savings and prevent 17 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions each year.

“Energy Star-certified lighting is one of the easiest opportunities for American consumers to save energy, save money, and protect the environment from climate change,” EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said. “The lighting market is poised for dramatic change towards high-quality, long-lasting products that use a fraction of the energy compared to the bulbs they replace and save Americans money at the same time, and that’s a win-win in my book.”