Trump eliminates popular energy standard despite widespread support from businesses

The Trump Administration today announced the rollback of new lighting standards, which are the nation’s leading energy savings initiative next to vehicle fuel economy standards. The decision will slow the U.S. transition to more efficient light bulbs. Less-efficient bulbs estimated to cost the average household over $100 extra a year in electricity costs, while generating more pollution.

The Trump Administration proceeded with finalizing the rollbacks despite over 60,000 individuals and organizations, including a coalition of more than 50 businesses, several Fortune 500 retailers and companies submitting public comments arguing against the proposed rollback. This standard was poised to save consumers $340 billion and prevent annual emissions of 59 million metric tons of carbon dioxide by 2050.

“The Trump Administration’s decision today runs counter to growing consumer preference for efficient LED bulbs. Leading businesses – and especially those that have made public climate commitments – would be wise to ignore this rollback and stop buying and selling the inefficient light bulbs that hurt business, customers and the environment. Businesses have powerful leverage and market power to support greater lighting efficiency, and now, in the face of regulatory rollbacks, is the time to act and to meet growing customer demands.”

• Elizabeth V. Sturcken, Managing Director, Environmental Defense Fund