The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 phases out and eventually eliminates many incandescent lamps beginning in January 2012. We have had many customers inquire about this law and the potential impact on the future availability of light bulbs. It is important to note that this law is about improving lighting efficiency and not about eliminating a specific type of lamp base.
Excluded from the law’s provisions are 3–way bulbs, decorative bulbs (including “flame tip” bulbs shapes F, B and C), and specialty bulbs. All of our chandeliers and sconces are designed for use with decorative flame-shaped medium base or candelabra base bulbs. Candelabra base bulbs of 60 watts or
less are excluded from the new restriction, as are medium base bulbs of 40 watts or less.
As of October 1st our website will reflect the 40W limit on medium base sockets. We will also suggest CFL alternatives that would be appropriate when higher wattage is desirable.
Some of our table lamps and pendants which do not take 3 way bulbs will either require using a 40 watt decorative bulb, CFL or the Philip’s Halogena bulb. To date, the Halogena is the only incandescent/ halogen bulb which complies with the required efficiency standards. It is available in 40W, 50W and 70W versions and is compatible with dimmers.
We fully expect that there will continue to be dramatic annual improvement in LED technology to create a light bulb whose shape, size and light imitates the 60W incandescent and uses the standard candelabra and medium base sockets. We will follow that technology with the aim of providing lighting that is beautiful and energy efficient and we will keep you informed.