Federal Ballast Rule Lighting Elements

Raises efficiency requirements for fluorescent T12 lamp/ballast systems.  Ballasts for 2-foot U-bent lamps, 4’ RS, and 8’ IS and HO are covered under the rule.  Effective April 1, 2005, new luminaires may not be made with non-compliant magnetic ballasts, and as of July 1, 2010, non-compliant magnetic ballasts may not be manufactured.

Intended Outcomes

By phasing out magnetic T12 systems, which constitutes a huge market, the rule saves quite a bit of energy.  The new regulation requires the use of efficient electronic lamp/ballast systems, such as T8, and it allows manufacturers and the market 5 years to adjust to the rule.  Additionally, another 5 years is provided to clear out inventory and to adjust to the elimination of replacements.

Industry Impacts

Electronic ballasts don’t require high capital investment, and the rule opens up opportunities for competition, resulting in more, non-traditional lighting manufacturers.  It also opens up opportunities for off-shore manufacturing.  Ballasts are now being included in electronic waste initiatives, which consider disposal and recycling issues, and on the design side (manufacturer and lighting designer), “system thinking” is a must, rather than considering components separately.

Market/User Impacts

The rule has resulted in reduced energy consumption, meaning lower operating costs and less air pollution.  Prices for lamp/ballast systems have been driven lower and lower, improving payback.  Consumers have benefited from better color quality by switching to T8, with no flicker.  However, with so many combinations, and so many choices there are compatibility issues, and fluorescent luminaires at Do-It-Yourself stores may sport higher price tags.

OSRAM SYLVANIA was instrumental in assisting the US Department of Energy develop this ruling.  Read more.