US Government Gives $10 Million “Affordable Eco-Bulb” Award To $50 Light Bulb
When the US government launched the “L Prize” it was suppose to provide one manufacturer with a $10 million prize for creating an “affordable low-energy light bulb” but instead the prize went to Philips for a $50 LED bulb.
While the eco-friendly light bulb delivers on its “green” promise other bulbs of the same type often cause less than 50% of the Philips bulb pricing.
Originally the contest sought a bulb that would cost no more than $22 with an $8 price point by the third year of sales.
The “L Prize” was created after George W. Bush signed legislation that would eventually require incandescent bulbs to be banned.
According to the Washington Post:
This year, it’s the 100-watt bulb; next year, the 75-watt, and then the 60-watt. The prize was intended to create an affordable alternative to the 60-watt, the most commonly used bulb.
In its defense Philips says the new light bulbs only use 10 watts while providing the type of results we would expect from a 60 watt bulb.
A Home Depot rep claims:
“This is a Cadillac product, and that’s why you have a premium on it.”
It’s just too bad that the “L Prize” wasn’t looking for a “Cadillac” product but rather something along the lines of a Toyota Prius or Nissan Leaf.
Do you think a more affordable light bulb design should have been awarded the “L Prize”?
Comments
About the Author
James Johnson James is a new media professional with more than half a decade worth of experience in the online writing space. He currently serves as the Associate Editor of Inquisitr.com and the Editor-in-Chief of SocialNewsDaily.com. He also serves as a resident writer for Splash Press Media. In his spare time James consults businesses regarding SEO and Content Development.
