The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has
announced landmark consensus legislation, which will, for the
first time ever, set federal efficiency standards for pole-
mounted outdoor lighting. The consensus proposal is the result
of input from lighting manufacturers, designers, energy
advocates, and utilities. This legislation creates three tiers
for efficiency levels: Furthermore, the legislation will
regulate two types of lamps primarily used outdoors. After Jan.
1, 2016, high output double-ended quartz halogen lamps must have
a minimum efficiency of 27 LPW for lamps with a minimum rated
initial lumen value of 6,000 and a maximum initial lumen value
of 15,000. In addition, 34 LPW is required for lamps rated with
initial lumen value greater than 15,000 and less than 40,000.
After Jan. 1, 2016, no general-purpose mercury vapor lamp may be
manufactured. These are the least efficient type of high-
intensity discharge (HID) lamp and can be replaced with other
types of HID lamps or other lamp types.