Last of incandescent light bulbs are banned

The final phase of a ban on incandescent light bulbs goes into effect Wednesday, leaving consumers with pricier energy-efficient options that are expected to save people money over time.

Beginning Jan. 1, the production of 40- and 60-watt incandescent light bulbs is banned as part of efficiency standards signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2007.

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The government phased out 75- and 100-watt incandescent bulb over the last few years. But the latest ban will have a bigger effect on consumers because 40- and 60-watt light bulbs are the most popular on the market, according to research firm IMS Research.

That leaves consumers with several more energy-efficient options, including halogen, LED and CFL bulbs.

All these bulbs consume less energy compared with traditional incandescent ones, experts say, which means consumers should enjoy smaller utility bills.

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