On the heels of announcing new guidelines for TVs, the U.S. EPA has unveiled updated standards for light fixtures. Effective October 1, 2011, to qualify for the Energy Star label, light fixtures will need to increase efficiency 30 percent above currently qualified fluorescent-based fixtures. In 2013, performance requirements will increase further, providing 40 percent higher efficiency compared to currently qualified models.
The bulbs in Energy Star-qualified fixtures last at least 10 times longer than standard light bulbs, according to the EPA. The fixtures will continue to meet other strict performance requirements that ensure quick start-up and high quality light output, as well as reduced toxic content in the fixture materials. Additionally, the fixtures will come with a three-year warranty, which is above the industry practice.
