Phase-out of incandescent light bulbs

Various governments have passed legislation to phase out manufacturing or importation of incandescent light bulbs for general lighting in favor of more energy-efficient alternatives. The regulations are generally based on efficiency, rather than use of incandescent technology.

Brazil and Venezuela started the phase-out in 2005, and the European Union, Switzerland, and Australia began to phase them out in 2009. Likewise, other nations are implementing new energy standards or have scheduled phase-outs: Argentina, and Russia in 2012, and Canada, Mexico, Malaysia, and South Korea in 2014. A ban covering most general service incandescent lamps took effect in the United States in 2023, excluding unusual and novelty lamps and lamps used for purposes other than for lighting occupied spaces.

Objections to replacement of incandescent lamps for general lighting include the higher purchasing expense of alternative lamps and their hazardous material content. To mitigate the cost effects of these concerns the cost of alternative lamps may be reduced by subsidies. Manufacturers developed fluorescent lamps with reduced mercury content compared to original designs, and recycling programs are intended to prevent mercury release. New lamp types offer improved starting characteristics, and dimmable types are available.