CFL Sales Decline: Why?

Online, October 1, 2009 (Newswire.com) - Some states, such as Vermont and Massachusetts are seeing declines nearing 50%. This trend in the wrong direction is somewhat startling on the face of it (who wouldn't want bulbs that last longer?), but once analyzed, does have some clear contributing factors. Regardless of the decline, energy efficient light bulbs simply provide too many benefits to stakeholders to be ignored.
First, why is this decline occurring? There are three contributing factors, one of which is highly positive, and quite apparent. Compact fluorescent light bulbs last a long time, a real long time. This is well-known, and the primary reason for their existence. Based on normal household use, CFLs will last approximately 9 years. The sales decline could very well be because, quite simply, the bulbs are doing their job.
Another factor is the economy. Government funding for energy-efficient bulbs is being shifted into other issues such as housing and the credit markets. In his letter Karney goes on to write, "I am concerned, should these programs experience cuts in funding or outright cancellation, many of the gains we have achieved with this market in the last couple of years could be reversed." Not all is dim however, as California recently approved a $78 million incentive budget to be used between 2010 and 2012.
Beyond government funding, personal accounts have of course taken a hit as well. Some consumers are not opting to buy energy-efficient bulbs because of the higher initial cost. This is easily countered by informing the public that CFLs will actual save them money. According to the boxes on California's promotional bulbs they use 75% less energy and replace ten standard bulbs. In total (bulbs and energy costs) each four-pack will save consumers up to $368. Clearly going the energy efficient route makes economic sense.
When incandescent bulbs begin being phased out in 2012 consumers will still have a range of options. Energy efficient light bulbs come in a lot of flavors, from CFLs to L.E.D.s and advanced incandescent bulbs. Each provide some strong benefits, although the advanced incandescent still use two to three times the energy of CFLs. There is a strong case to be made for L.E.D. bulbs and lamps. They give users similar energy savings, provide instant-on light, and are cool to the touch. As the price continues to fall on LEDs expect them to make up a larger piece of the pie.
Overall the declining trend in compact fluorescent bulb sales is worth noting and should be addressed, but is much more complex than it seems on the surface, and is not worth panicking over. Incentives, mandates, and education will continue to give consumers and business alike plenty of reasons to replace their traditional incandescent with newer energy efficient light bulbs.
Superior Lighting's, Ft. Lauderdale's (South Florida) energy efficient lighting expert, mission is to help our customers choose the most energy efficient lighting. We lead the lighting industry by providing the best value in products and services to all of our customers, and we differentiate ourselves on the basis of our honesty and expertise. Superior Lighting can be contacted via web at http://www.superiorlighting.com/ or by calling 800-432-7995.