The incandescent light bulb had a good run. It remained the most efficient way to light your home at night long it was first invented way back at the end of the 19th century. It was a groundbreaking technology that served humanity well for over a hundred years. It's since been usurped by a better technology, however--the compact fluorescent lamp, which has slowly been overtaking the traditional bulb in popularity due to its overall improved efficiency. Not only does it cost less to light a home with CFLs, but it's also much better for the environment as the newer bulbs use much less electricity than their incandescent ancestors. It seems an obvious logical and ethical choice to go with CFLs and forget about older bulbs, but Republicans of Congress have just blocked a law that would enforce new environmental standards on light bulb use. 

 

It seems Republicans always use the same sort of language when defending decisions such as these. They don't want to bring about new environmental restrictions because of freedom of choice and consumer empowerment and what not. What's interesting about this case, though, is that the light bulb industry is actually in favor of new restrictions that would phase out old incandescent bulbs. They're all for narrowing the market to include only CFLs. It's a rare instance where an entire capitalist industry seems to agree with environmentalist activists. But of course it makes sense, as the industry has poured lots of money into developing these new bulbs and now seeks to earn a profit off of them. They are more expensive than incandescents, after all. Republican members of the House seem to think that delaying the CFL mandate is saving Americans dollars--but is that really the case?

 

Even if you're spending more money per bulb--and ultimately benefiting the light bulb industry--you'd still be saving money overall by equipping your home with CFLs. A little investment in new technology up front actually helps you cut down on energy costs over time. So maybe this move by Republicans isn't really about saving Americans money, but making sure their money goes to the right places: to the folks behind the energy industry. It seems like a little industrial competition has gotten caught up in the House vote here. Maybe the Republicans have more friends in natural gas and oil than they do in light bulb companies.

 

Either way, the proposed environmental standards have been delayed until October for now. You can still purchase incandescent bulbs until then in the name of consumer choice--even though ultimately they may be the more expensive lighting option.