A prize-winning light
bulb that lasts for 20 years is going on sale in the US on Sunday - also known
as Earth Day. Made by Dutch
electronics giant Philips, the bulb swaps filaments for light-emitting diodes
to provide illumination. Using LEDs endows the light with a long life and a
hefty price tag. The first versions are set to cost $60 (£37). Philips has
arranged discounts with shops that will sell the bulb meaning some could buy it
for only $20 (£12).
Production ban
The bulb triumphed in
the Bright Tomorrow competition run by the US Department of Energy that aimed
to find an energy efficient alternative to the 60-watt incandescent light bulb.
The DoE challenged firms to develop a design that gave out a warm light similar
to that from an incandescent bulbs but was much more energy efficient. Philips
was the only entrant for the competition and its design underwent 18 months of
testing before being declared a winner. A cheaper and less efficient version of
the LED bulb is already sold by Philips in the US and Europe. LED bulbs face
competition from compact fluorescent lights which are almost as energy
efficient and cost a lot less. Sales of more energy efficient bulbs are being
aided by official moves to end production of higher wattage incandescent bulbs.
Production of 100 watt bulbs has ceased in the US and Europe. Production of 60
watt bulbs has been stopped in Europe and is being phased out in the US. From
2014, incandescent bulbs of 40 watts or above will be banned in the US.
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