The world has turned its attention to the efficiency of light fittings since the passage of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. This piece of legislation requires all businesses and homes to phase out incandescent lighting by the year 2012.
To grasp the potential for savings, it is important to note that energy efficient bulbs burn one quarter to one-fifth of the amount of energy of a standard light bulb.
Homeowners who want to be compliant with the Energy Independence and Security Act have to begin to think about ceiling light fittings that are more energy efficient.
It will become increasingly more difficult to find traditional light bulbs. In some countries like the UK, consumers already feel the crunch. As of September 1, 2009, retail sellers in the UK were no longer allowed to order traditional bulbs. The British government will allow them to sell what they already have in stock, however.
Some resistance to energy saving light fittings has come from customers believing they will be stuck with ugly bulbs and fixtures that do not mat current light fittings in their home decor. In actuality, as the world moves closer to the deadline for switch to more energy efficient lighting, fittings and bulbs have become more similar in design.
As an added incentive for switching, federal tax credits are available to homeowners for certain qualifying Energy Star products. If you own an existing home and it is your primary residence, you can claim 30 percent of your expenditures up to $1,500 until December 31, 2010. This does not apply to newly constructed homes or rental properties. It can extend beyond mere energy saving light fittings to include non-solar water heaters, insulation, windows, doors and metal roofing.
