Some Incandescent light bulbs will no long be sold starting 2013. Others will be phased out gradually.

“Under the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, incandescent light bulbs are being phased out beginning October 2012 in favor of more energy efficient alternatives.” Reports UNITS 2012 (magazine for owners of apartment complexes)

CFLS (compact flourescent lamps) are one alternative and should be more energy effiecient. the mercury inside can present potential health risk should the bulb break. Claims for duration vary widely.

LED (light emitting diodes) are more expensive, but last much longer – over 20 years_ according to manufacturers claims. They are 80 % more efficient than incandescents. they are mercury free and usually dimmable. They are shock resistant and so more difficult to break.They emit less EMF also.

Normally they take a different fixture, but UNITS reports that some screw into ta standard light fixture.

UNITS suggests that LEDs are probably the future of lighting, once consumers begin to think of their lighting in terms of durable goods.