There’s been much talk of CFLs replacing traditional incandescent bulbs, but it may be LED lightbulbs that take the spotlight.

Manufacturers say the lightbulbs containing the light-emitting diodes found in the ON lights for electronic devices can last up to 50,000 hours. Compare that to 10,000 for CFL and 1,000 for incandescents.

The Department of Energy says lighting uses 22% of the nation’s electricity. Mass LED lightbulb use could halve that demand. One such light produces produces lighting equivalent to 25 watts of light, but only consumes 5.8. Another only uses 11 watts and produces produces lighting equivalent to 40 watts of light.

Right now price is still high for Dick and Jane, $15-$85 per bulb, but one white-light diode maker says, “By the middle of next year, they’ll be priced for consumers.” — BEN POPKEN

Light bulb may be on its way out [Seattle P-I]

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