Thanks to Energy Efficiency Program Sponsors (EEPS), the compact fluorescent light has gained recognition in America. For over a decade various CFL advocate groups have implemented specific guidelines to assure the light quality of compact fluorescent light bulbs.

The popularity of the compact light bulb is attributable to Americans, who are concerned about saving the planet and reducing electricity bill costs. ENERGY STAR, a government-sponsored program, recommends certain brands of the compact fluorescent bulb. The standard for the compact fluorescent light bulb is based on the performance and quality of the light.

Dating back to 1999, ENERGY STAR set the benchmarks for the CFL’s minimum lifetime requirements. In 2001, ENERGY STAR implemented packaging guidelines. The warranty requirements were extended to a two-year requirement in 2003.

 In an endeavor to assure for consistency among CFL products, ENERGY STAR updated the manufacturing guidelines. From requiring mercury content limitations and mercury disclosure labeling, ENERGY STAR modified a number of efficiency requirements in

When consumers purchase CFLs, which are ENERGY STAR qualified, there are several benefits. These include:

• Fewer defective compact fluorescent light bulbs
• An extended life
• Enhanced luminosity
• Few to nil premature failures

According to Northwest Energy Efficiency, a market research study from 2007 shows that consumers are overall satisfied with the compact fluorescent bulb. In terms of luminosity, appearance, color and endurance, consumers rated the compact fluorescent light bulb a resounding four out of five points in each category.

The same evaluation indicated that more than 75 percent of American consumers perceive the CFL to offer better light quality than the incandescent light bulb. Although the survey was based on 34,750 American households, the compact fluorescent light bulb  was more popular among people age 18-34 and women