Update on the Finalization of Test Procedure Rule for General Service Lamps
ALA is pleased to announce that the test procedure for general service lamps, as clarified in the final rule published in the Federal Register on Jan. 16, 2025 (90 FR 4589), has successfully passed. ALA is proud to support this crucial step forward, as the rule provides much-needed clarity and regulatory certainty for manufacturers in the rapidly evolving lighting industry.
As Congress directed in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA), the lighting industry has worked diligently, with extensive support from national laboratories and the Department of Energy, to transition to solid-state lighting (SSL), specifically light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This market transformation, backed by approximately $500 million in federal appropriations and billions of dollars in private investment, has yielded immense energy savings and innovation in the lighting sector.
The final rule clarifying product testing and certification requirements for LED lamps is a positive and welcome development for the lighting industry. Without this clarification, manufacturers would face the need to invest in excessively expensive test equipment, which would ultimately increase costs for American consumers and businesses. This rule strikes a balance between maintaining high standards for product performance and easing the burden on manufacturers, ensuring that consumers can enjoy innovative features – such as connectivity and color tuning – without the risk of excessive cost increases.
NEMA offered comments on the rule which also emphasized their commitment to the energy conservation standards for general service lamps, which were promulgated in April 2024 (89 FR 28856). ALA members by in large have fully integrated these standards into their operations, transitioning away from traditional glass-based light sources and embracing energy-efficient LED technology. This transformation has been driven by consumer demand for longer-lasting, energy-saving solutions, which are now affordable and widely available. ALA stands with NEMA in strong support of the continued implementation of this test procedure rule.
We look forward to continued collaboration with Congress and federal agencies as we work together to ensure that the US lighting industry remains a leader in innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.
Update on FCC Docket: Opportunity to Comment
In response to a recent FCC Docket the commission has dubbed “Delete, Delete, Delete” the FCC is soliciting comments on ideas to streamline or eliminate FCC regulations and programs.
Many products like battery powered and remote-control ceiling fans now fall under Part 15 which allows for operation of these devices without being licensed by the commission. Members may have specific thoughts on these programs or reporting requirements that ALA would like to take into consideration.
If you do have specific thoughts or recommendations for the FCC, feel free to reach out to Laurie Gross or Palmer Schoening. A link to the Public Notice is available here.