The U.S. Department of Energy is investing in research and development projects for LEDs.
The U.S. Department of Energy announced five manufacturing research and development projects it plans to invest $10 million in to support energy-efficient lighting products. According to the release, the projects not only focus on reducing manufacturing costs but on the continued improvement of quality and performance for light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
LED lighting today is at least six times more efficient than traditional lighting and lasts up to 25 times longer.
“This partnership with industry to produce affordable, efficient lighting will save consumers money and create American jobs,” said Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz. “It’s another example of how energy efficiency is a win-win proposition for our economy.”
The Energy Department revealed that the installation of LED lights in the United States has increased from 4.5 million in 2010 to 49 million in 2012. Installations include indoor and outdoor lighting applications, including streetlights. Consumers, including building and business owners, who have completed LED upgrades are expected to save approximately $675 million in annual energy costs.
If the U.S. switches entirely to LEDs in the next 20 years, the country has the potential to save $250 billion in energy costs and reduce energy consumption by 50 percent, and LEDs are projected to represent 75 percent of all lighting sales by 2030, according to the report.
The current issue with LEDs lights are their higher initial price, although the cost is dropping. However, the investment by the DOE will help with further cost reductions while making the lights even better and more efficient.
According to The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the research and development projects are scheduled to last for two years.
The energy efficiency consultants at Lumenistics can provide more information on the best available options for LEDs and other energy-efficient lighting options.