As the world moves towards energy efficiency, fluorescent lighting is becoming obsolete in many states. Alternatives like LED technology have taken over and promoted sustainability for the environment. This transition is pivotal in global lighting history, propelled by the fluorescent light ban enacted in several US states, Canada, and other countries. To understand the nature of fluorescent light bans, we first need to look at the history and the reasons behind them.
The History of Fluorescent Lighting Bans
Fluorescent lighting first gained popularity in the 1930s as an energy-efficient alternative to incandescent bulbs. These lights became widespread in industrial, commercial, and residential applications. By the 1980s, Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) became a household favorite because of their affordability. Little did everyone know that mercury would soon become a top issue for these types of lights, which eventually led to fluorescent light bans.
In the early 2000s, activists pushed for even more energy efficiency when a new lighting technology, Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), was introduced. This was when the European Union passed the Eco-design Directive, setting minimum energy performance standards for lighting products. These standards were leading to the phase-out of inefficient incandescent and fluorescent lamps. In 2009, the U.S. enacted the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA), which indirectly promoted LEDs and discouraged less efficient fluorescents.
Finally, we get to the mercury concerns in the 2010s, when people were noting how the hazardous materials in fluorescent lighting pose a significant risk to human health. In 2013, The United Nations adopted the Minamata Convention on Mercury, a treaty that aimed to reduce mercury pollution. This is where over 140 countries committed to phasing out products containing mercury, thus the origin of fluorescent light bans.
List Of U.S. States Banning Fluorescent Lights in 2025
In 2025, many states will begin to ban particular types of fluorescent lights. Some fluorescent light bans are already active in these states, and some are even going above the federal minimum. Below is a list of US states that are introducing more bans on fluorescent lights in 2025.
California
California lawmakers passed AB-2208 in September 2022 and set the dates below.
- Pin-base CFL: January 1, 2025
- Linear fluorescent tube: January 1, 2025
California commercial customers can qualify for On-Bill Financing, which allows for low-interest payments toward their projects.
Colorado
In June 2023, Colorado passed HB23-1161, which set the dates for the prohibition or distribution of fluorescent lighting.
- Screw-base CFL: January 1, 2025
- Pin-base CFL: January 1, 2025
- Linear fluorescent tube: January 1, 2025
There are penalties for non-compliance with fluorescent light bans that apply to each transaction.
Hawaii
Lawmakers from Hawaii passed HB 192 / SB 690, which prohibits the sale or distribution of fluorescent lights. Here is the active fluorescent light ban starting in 2025.
- Screw-base CFL: January 1, 2025
There are additional bans on high-CRI fluorescent lamps with a CRI greater than 87.
Minnesota
In 2024, Minnesota enacted the Cleaning Lighting Bill HF 3911. This new development also covers mercury vapor lamps, and some restrictions will be placed in place in the upcoming year. Here are the effective dates:
- Screw-base & bayonet-base CFL: January 1, 2025
Oregon
Oregon lawmakers passed House Bill 2531 and will be removing the incentives available for LED lighting upgrades once fluorescent light bans start. Here are the effective dates:
- Pin-base CFL: January 1, 2025
- Linear fluorescent tube: January 1, 2025
Rhode Island
House Bill 5550 has been passed which bans the sale of certain fluorescent lighting technologies. This bill was signed into law in June 2023. Here are the effective dates:
- Pin-base CFL: January 1, 2025
- Linear fluorescent tube: January 1, 2025
Why Are Fluorescent Lights Being Phased Out?
Fluorescent lights are being phased out for several reasons. Beyond historical efforts toward a sustainable future, these types of lights contain hazardous mercury content. Fluorescent lights contain 2-5 milligrams of mercury per bulb, which can be released into the environment if broken or improperly disposed of. Mercury pollution is linked to neurological damage, developmental issues, and contamination of air and water.
Another reason why fluorescent lights are being phased out is because of energy inefficiency. Fluorescents consume significantly more energy than LEDs, which increases maintenance costs. LEDs offer up to 80% energy savings and have longer lifespans. This will lead to reduced environmental impact if we get rid of fluorescent light use.
CFL vs. LFL vs. High-CRI Fluorescents: Understanding the Differences
When it comes to fluorescents, it's helpful to understand the differences between each type of light. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are designed for residential use. These lights usually have screw or pin bases for lamps and ceiling fixtures.
Linear fluorescent lamps (LFLs) are long tubes that are used in commercial and industrial settings. Types of this lighting include T12, T8, and T5. T12 tubes are the least efficient and are currently being widely phased out.
High-CRI fluorescents are specialized lamps with a color rendering index above 87. This provides superior color accuracy, which is important for medical facilities, design studios, and photography.
All of these fluorescent lighting types are being targeted for bans due to their mercury content and inefficiency.
Global Lighting Market Trends, Insights, and Opportunities
The current lighting market is undergoing a massive transformation that's driven by advancements in LED technology and sustainability efforts. According to recent global lighting market reports, the global lighting market is projected to grow by 54 billion dollars between 2023 and 2028. Green initiatives from automation systems like smart city projects are fueling demand for energy-efficient lighting. Some emerging opportunities include IoT-enabled lighting, horticulture lighting, and human-centric lighting. At Shine Retrofits, our total focus and expertise are on energy-efficient lighting. Our lighting specialists are trained to help you navigate our vast catalog to find the perfect lighting solution for your needs. Contact us today for more information on lighting fixtures.