Incandescent bulb energy efficiency remains very low in 2025. Most incandescent bulbs convert only about 2% of electrical energy into visible light, with the rest lost as heat.
| Bulb Type | Approximate Visible Light Efficiency(%) |
| 40W tungsten incandescent(general service) | ~1.4% |
| 60W tungsten incandescent(general service) | ~2.1% |
| 100W tungsten incandescent(general service) | ~2.6% |
By contrast, modern lighting solutions like LEDs and CFLs are not only more efficient but also last much longer and have a significantly smaller environmental impact. The shift away from incandescent bulbs has been driven by regulatory changes, falling prices for energy-efficient options, and growing awareness of climate and cost-related concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Incandescent bulbs waste most of their energy as heat, making them highly inefficient.
- LEDs use up to 90% less energy, dramatically cutting electricity bills and carbon emissions.
- Governments worldwide have banned or restricted incandescent bulbs to encourage greener alternatives.
- LEDs outlast incandescent bulbs by decades, reducing long-term costs and waste.
- Smart lighting systems (timers, motion sensors) enhance efficiency and lighting quality.
Incandescent Bulb History
Invention and Adoption
The journey of the incandescent bulb began with a series of inventive breakthroughs.
1.In 1841, Frederick de Moleyns received the first patent for an incandescent lamp in England. His design used a glass bulb and powdered charcoal but proved inefficient.
2.Hermann Sprengel invented the mercury-vacuum pump in 1865, which improved the vacuum inside bulbs and helped preserve filaments.
3.Henry Woodward and Mathew Evans patented a carbon filament bulb in 1874, but their design did not succeed commercially. They sold their patent to Thomas Edison in 1879.
4.Joseph Swan in the UK and Thomas Edison in the US both developed practical carbon filament bulbs between 1878 and 1879. Swan received a British patent first, but Edison’s improvements made his version more durable.
5.Edison demonstrated his improved bulb in 1879 and, by 1880, used a bamboo filament that lasted 1,200 hours.
6.Edison and Swan formed a joint company in 1881 to produce bulbs commercially.
7.Edison opened the first commercial power plant in New York City in 1882, supplying electricity for 400 incandescent bulbs.
8.William D. Coolidge introduced tungsten filaments in 1906, making bulbs stronger and longer-lasting.
9.By 1911, General Electric began selling tungsten filament bulbs, setting a new industry standard.
Widespread Use
By the early 20th century, incandescent bulbs became a symbol of modern life. Their use in homes, hospitals, and offices improved safety, productivity, and quality of life, extending activities well into the evening.
William Coolidge’s ductile tungsten wire and Irving Langmuir’s coiled filament with inert gas filling increased both brightness and lifespan. These advances made bulbs affordable and practical for homes and businesses. Hospitals, schools, and offices benefited from reliable, clean light, which improved safety and productivity. In homes, incandescent bulbs became a symbol of modern living, extending daily activities into the evening. The shift from gas lamps to electric bulbs also made lighting safer and more convenient. However, their widespread adoption also meant massive increases in energy consumption, eventually raising environmental concerns.
Decline and Phase-Out
| Region/Country | Policy Actions and Timeline | Market/Technological Factors |
| Europe | Ban on inefficient 60W bulbs from 2011; all incandescent bulbs banned from 2012 |
Shift to CFLs and LEDs; halogen lights remain marginally more efficient |
| USA | Phase-out began in 2012 for 100W bulbs; 75W banned in 2013; 40W and 60W banned in 2014 |
2007 law mandated phased ban |
| Japan | Voluntary halt of production and sales; Panasonic stopped household production by 2012 | Energy-saving campaigns |
| China | Ban on 100W+ bulbs from 2012; 60W+ from 2014; 15W+ from 2016 | Phased approach to phase-out |
| Global Market | LED prices dropped, increasing adoption | Falling LED prices boosted energy-saving market |
| Global Context | Energy shortages and climate change concerns | Incandescent bulbs seen as energy-inefficient |
As countries enacted bans, consumer sentiment shifted, viewing incandescent bulbs as wasteful and outdated. Though some people still prefer their warm glow for decorative use, LEDs and CFLs now dominate the lighting market.
Incandescent Bulb Energy Efficiency
How Incandescent Bulbs Work
Incandescent bulbs produce light through thermal radiation. When electricity flows through a tungsten filament, the filament heats up until it glows and emits visible light.
However, the process is highly inefficient—only about 10% of the energy is converted into light, while the remaining 90% is lost as heat. This low efficiency is why incandescent bulbs are considered outdated compared to modern lighting options like LEDs and CFLs.
The high energy waste and heat output have led to the development of more efficient alternatives that offer better performance with significantly lower power consumption.
Note: The heat produced by incandescent bulbs can make rooms warmer, especially when many bulbs are used. This extra heat can increase cooling costs in warmer climates.
Efficiency Compared to LEDs and CFLs
Incandescent bulb energy efficiency lags far behind modern alternatives like compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Unlike incandescent bulbs, which lose most of their energy as heat, CFLs and LEDs use advanced technology to convert a much higher percentage of electricity into light.
For example, a typical 60-watt incandescent bulb uses much more energy than its modern counterparts. The table blow shows a direct comparison:
| Feature | Incandescent | CFL | LED |
| Watts used | 60W | 14W | 7W |
| Average lifespan(hours) | 1200 | 8000 | 25000 |
| Bulbs needed for 25,000hours | 21 | 3 | 1 |
| Total bulb purchase cost | $21 | $6 | $4 |
| 25,000 hrs Electricity cost | $169 | $52 | $30 |
| 20 yrs Total estimated cost | $211 | $54 | $34 |
LED bulbs are about 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. CFLs also use around 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs but are slightly less efficient than LEDs. LEDs remain cool to the touch because they convert most of their energy into light, not heat. This high efficiency means that switching to LEDs or CFLs can reduce lighting energy consumption by up to 90%.
Lifespan is another key factor that affects the total cost of lighting. Incandescent bulbs typically last only 1,000 to 1,500 hours, while CFLs can last up to 15,000 hours, and LEDs often exceed 25,000 hours. This means households using incandescent bulbs need to replace them far more frequently, leading to higher long-term costs for both purchases and maintenance.
Over a 20-year period, the total cost of using incandescent bulbs can exceed $200, while LEDs deliver the same amount of light for under $40—making them the smarter, more economical choice in the long run.
| Bulb Type | Average Life Span(hours) | Typical wattage(60W equivalent) | Cost per Bulb(USD) | Electricity Cost Per Year(USD) | Total Cost over 25,000 hours(USD) |
| Incandescent | ~1000-1500 | 60 | $1 | $8.54 | ~$171 |
| CFL | ~8000-15000 | 14 | $2 | $1.99 | ~$40 |
| LED | ~25000+ | 8.5-9 | $5 | $1.28 | ~$26.25 |
Switching to LEDs or CFLs not only improves incandescent bulb energy efficiency but also lowers household electricity bills. For example, a 60-watt incandescent bulb used for six hours a day consumes about 219 kilowatt-hours per year. An equivalent LED uses only about 36.5 kilowatt-hours. This difference leads to significant savings, especially in homes with many light fixtures. LEDs also last much longer, so families spend less time and money replacing bulbs.
Tip: Using dimmers, motion sensors, and maximizing natural daylight can further increase energy savings and reduce costs.
Environmental Impact
Energy Use and Emissions
Incandescent bulbs have a significant impact on the environment due to their high energy consumption and low efficiency. Most of the electricity they use turns into heat, not light. This inefficiency leads to higher fossil fuel use, since about 60% of electricity in the United States comes from fossil fuels. As a result, incandescent bulbs contribute large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases to the atmosphere.
The federal ban on incandescent bulbs aims to address this problem. Experts estimate that this policy will cut carbon emissions by about 222 million metric tons over 30 years. That reduction equals the yearly emissions from 28 million homes or the pollution from 800,000 cars each year. Every month, incandescent bulbs generate about 800,000 metric tons of preventable carbon emissions. By switching to LEDs, which use 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer, households and businesses can lower their carbon footprint and reduce strain on the power grid.
Widespread adoption of LED lighting could have an even greater effect. Project Drawdown estimates that if LEDs reach 90-95% of homes and 80-90% of businesses by 2050, global greenhouse gas emissions could drop by up to 15.69 gigatons of CO2 equivalent. This shift would also save money and improve air quality.
Disposal and Waste
Disposal of incandescent bulbs creates environmental challenges. These bulbs add non-biodegradable glass and metal to landfills, where they can remain for centuries. Unlike CFLs, incandescent bulbs do not contain hazardous mercury, so they pose less risk of toxic pollution. However, their frequent replacement increases landfill volume.
- Incandescent bulbs are rarely accepted in curbside recycling programs, so most end up in landfills.
- LEDs and CFLs contain valuable materials that can be recycled, but CFLs require special handling due to mercury.
- Improper disposal of CFLs can cause mercury pollution, while LEDs need e-waste recycling to recover components.
Although incandescent bulbs do not release toxins, their disposal still contributes to growing landfill waste. Recycling programs for all bulb types can help reduce environmental harm.
Regulations and Phase-Out
Global and U.S. Policies
Countries around the world have moved to phase out incandescent bulbs since 2010. Many governments introduced bans or restrictions to encourage the use of energy-efficient lighting. This global trend continues in 2025, with most developed nations enforcing strict standards for light bulb efficiency. The United States has played a major role in this shift. The Department of Energy (DoE) set new rules for general service lamps (GSLs) and general service incandescent lamps (GSILs). These rules took effect on August 23, 2023, requiring bulbs to meet a minimum efficiency of 45 lumens per watt. By July 25, 2028, the standard will rise to over 120 lumens per watt. Most incandescent bulbs cannot meet these requirements, so they are no longer sold for general lighting.
The following table highlights key U.S. federal and state regulations:
| State/Federal | Incandescent Bulb Regulations(2023-2025) | Other Lamp Bans and Nots |
| Federal(Doe) | 45 lumens/watt minimum (2023); 120+ lumens/watt (2028) | Applies to most general service lamps |
| California | CFL ban (2024-2025); LFL ban (2025) | |
| Oregon, Colorado | CFL ban (2024-2025); LFL ban (2025) | |
| Other States | Similar bans on CFLs and LFLs by 2026-2028 |
These policies aim to reduce energy waste, save consumers money, and cut carbon emissions. The federal standard alone is expected to save $1.6 billion each year and prevent 70 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions over 30 years.
Exemptions and Niche Uses
Not all incandescent bulbs face a complete ban. Some specialty lamps remain legal because they do not fit the definition of general service lamps. These exemptions allow certain industries and applications to continue using incandescent technology where alternatives may not work as well.
- Specialty incandescent lamps with unusual bases or non-standard voltages
- Bulbs designed for focused beam lighting, such as appliance or oven lights
- Lamps with low wattage or low light output for decorative or indicator purposes
Note: The Department of Energy continues to review and update its definitions. Some specialty bulbs may lose their exemption in the future as rules change.
These exemptions ensure that essential or unique lighting needs can still be met, even as most households and businesses switch to more efficient options. The ongoing review process reflects the balance between energy savings and practical requirements for lighting in specific settings.
Alternatives and Innovations
LED Lighting Advances
LED technology has rapidly evolved, offering significant improvements in both energy efficiency and user experience. Manufacturers now use high-frequency switching in LED drivers to maximize efficiency. Advanced materials like ceramic substrates help manage heat, extending the lifespan of both LEDs and their drivers. Compact and modular driver designs make installation and upgrades easier for users. Many modern LEDs support adaptive lighting and energy usage tracking, which helps save energy and improve safety.
- Integration with mobile and cloud platforms allows real-time control and personalized lighting.
- AI-driven systems adjust lighting based on environmental and user cues, creating intelligent and responsive spaces.
- Features such as dimming and zoning provide greater customization and satisfaction.
- Organic LEDs (OLEDs) introduce thin, flexible lighting options, while quantum dots enhance color accuracy.
- Some LEDs now harvest ambient energy, reducing the need for external power sources.
- Architectural integration embeds lighting into building elements for seamless design.
These advances have led to longer lifespans, with minimal degradation even after decades of use.
CFL and Halogen Options
CFL and halogen bulbs remain alternatives to incandescent lighting, though they offer different benefits. CFLs use much less energy than incandescent bulbs and last significantly longer. Halogen bulbs, while more efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, do not match the efficiency or lifespan of CFLs or LEDs.
| Bulb Type | Typical Wattage for ~400-500 Lumens | Average Lifespan (hours) |
| Incandescent | 40W | 1,200 |
| CFL | 8-12W | 8,000 |
| Halogen | 40-60W | 2,000 |
CFLs provide a cost-effective option for those seeking better efficiency, while halogens offer improved performance over classic incandescent bulbs but are less common due to regulatory changes.
Smart Lighting Trends
Smart lighting adoption continues to grow, driven by government policies, economic incentives, and technological innovation. Programs like the U.S. Energy Independence and Security Act and incentives from recent infrastructure laws encourage the use of energy-efficient lighting. These policies, combined with rebates and tax credits, reduce upfront costs and accelerate the transition to smart lighting.
Smart lighting systems use LED technology, sensors, and wireless controls to optimize energy use. AI and data analytics enable features like occupancy-based dimming and scheduling, which can reduce global energy consumption by up to 15%. As urbanization increases, smart lighting becomes essential for homes, businesses, and cities, supporting sustainability and lowering environmental impact.
Lighting Choices in 2025
Factors to Consider
Choosing the right lighting in 2025 goes beyond just picking a bulb. To maximize savings and minimize environmental impact, consider the following:
- Energy efficiency remains the top priority. LEDs use up to 90% less energy and can last up to 100,000 hours.
- Fixture compatibility, wattage rating, and base size ensure the bulb fits and performs well.
- Dimmable bulbs and motion sensors help reduce energy use by adjusting brightness and activating lights only when needed.
- Timers can control lighting schedules, cutting unnecessary energy consumption.
- ENERGY STAR labeled products meet strict efficiency guidelines.
- Solar-powered outdoor lighting operates independently from the grid, reducing both utility bills and carbon footprint.
- Brightness (lumens), color temperature (Kelvin), and fixture type affect lighting quality and efficiency.
- Upgrading to efficient lighting cuts both energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Tip: Smart features like motion sensors and timers can enhance both energy savings and everyday convenience.
Recommended Options
LED lighting remains the top choice for homes and businesses in 2025—offering unmatched energy efficiency, a long lifespan, and high-quality light. When paired with smart features like occupancy sensors, daylight harvesting, and automatic shutoff, LEDs can cut lighting energy use by up to 75%.
LEDs also support human-centric lighting, adjusting color temperature and brightness to align with natural circadian rhythms—boosting comfort, focus, and overall well-being.
In commercial spaces, the demand for LEDs continues to grow as they integrate with smart controls and IoT systems, creating adaptive, sustainable lighting environments built for the future.
When to Use Incandescent Bulbs
While incandescent bulbs are no longer recommended for most everyday use due to their low energy efficiency, there are still a few cases where they remain practical or necessary:
- Low-traffic areas like attics or closets where lights are rarely used.
- Temporary needs, such as construction sites or outdoor events.
- Heating equipment, including ovens and microwaves, where LEDs cannot withstand high temperatures.
- Decorative purposes, when a warm glow or vintage look is desired.
- Specialty uses, such as appliance lamps, colored bulbs, bug lights, and shatter-resistant lamps.
Federal standards prohibit most general-use incandescent bulbs, but exceptions remain for these specific cases. People should always check local regulations before purchasing.
| Reason | Explanation |
| Energy Inefficiency | Incandescent bulbs waste most energy as heat, not light. |
| Short Lifespan | Frequent replacements increase cost and waste. |
| Regulatory Non-compliance | New laws ban most incandescent bulbs for general use. |
| Superior Alternatives | LEDs offer better efficiency, longer life, and improved quality. |
Switching to LEDs boosts savings and reduces environmental impact. Households can save up to $225 each year and cut carbon emissions by 500 pounds. For best results, use motion sensors, timers, and solar-powered options. Lighting vendors and industry groups help consumers stay updated on new technology and regulations.
FAQ
Which Type of Bulb Is the Most Energy-Efficient?
LEDs—they use up to 85% less energy and last over 20 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
How Much Electricity Does a 60-Watt Incandescent Bulb Use?
At 1 hour per day, a 60W incandescent bulb uses about 0.42 kWh per week, 1.83 kWh per month, and 21.9 kWh per year. At 2 hours per day, usage increases to 0.84 kWh per week, 3.65 kWh per month, and 43.8 kWh per year.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a 100-Watt Bulb for 24 Hours?
A 100W bulb running 24 hours a day uses 2.4 kWh daily. At $0.15 per kWh, it costs about $0.36 per day, $2.52 per week, $10.80 per month, and $131.40 per year.