I have been reluctant to weigh in on the recent discussions dealing with electricity demand and related topics because such topics are way beyond my experience. However, a recent New York Times article highlighted one topic that has come up in our discussions—energy conservation—that I found fascinating. The article points out that the residential demand for electricity per household in the U.S. rose steadily from 1970 to about 2010, but then began to decline.
A primary reason given for the decline, cited in both the NYT article and in more detail by an energy economist from UC Berkley? The large-scale switch to more efficient light bulbs.
The catalyst for the switch was 2007 Congressional legislation mandating efficiency standards for bulbs. When the second phase of that legislation takes effect next year, only compact fluorescent and LED bulbs will meet the standards. LED bulbs use up to 85 percent less electricity than traditional bulbs and can last up to 25 years. And, as with most new technology, the price has come down as it has been more widely accepted.
This is a good example of government-set standards that have spurred a new industry, reduced costs for consumers, and conserved energy, with only minor disruptions.
