On October 15, 1999, a new agreement was reached between lamp ballast manufacturers and energy efficiency advocates that will set new efficiency standards for fluorescent lighting used in commercial and industrial settings. When the new standards take effect on April 1, 2005, all fluorescent lamp ballasts produced for new construction or renovation projects in commercial or industrial properties must be energy-efficient electronic ballasts.

"This agreement is a victory for consumers, for the environment and for industry," said U.S. Secretary of Energy Bill Richardson. "Lighting accounts for 20% to 25% of all electricity consumed in the United States and, as a nation, we spend billions on it each year."

A fluorescent lamp ballast's efficiency has a direct impact on the amount of energy needed to light the lamp, and as a result, the amount of money spent on energy bills. Electronic ballasts are far more efficient than traditional magnetic ballasts. Over a 30-year period, the new standards are projected to save enough energy to light 12 to 26 million homes for one year. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over that same period will be equivalent to eliminating emissions from 27-58 million cars in one year.

Magnetic ballasts will still be available until 2010, allowing building owners to repair existing fluorescent lamp fixtures. After 2010, however, magnetic ballasts will be phased out completely. Residential ballasts are not affected by the new standards, although the Department of Energy is currently evaluating the residential market and may institute minimum efficiency standards for residential ballasts in the future.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy news release, October 15, 1999