US begins phasing out incandescent bulbs

With the start of the New Year, the US has begun to phase out incandescent bulbs and replace them with energy-efficient CFL bulbs.

The 100-watt bulb will be the first to go, while other lower wattage bulbs will follow each year.

It is part of a 2007 law passed with bipartisan approval, aimed at boosting energy efficiency across the nation. But retail workers say consumers may notice a difference in the replacements.

Halogen bulbs, compact fluorescent lights (CFL) and LED lights are all alternatives, but typically cost more than incandescent bulbs.

75-watt incandescent bulbs will be the next to go, but not until 2013.

Meanwhile, retailers can still sell the 100-watt bulbs until their stock runs out.