History of lighting: How technological advances and federal regulations shaped the bulb
Monali Mujumdar Part of the Next Generation of Energy Savings project

Ever since Thomas Edison’s incandescent lamp became commercially available more than a century ago, technological advances and federal regulations have shaped lighting’s path. Our infographic shows you the journey of lighting technology, including major milestones—such as the development of LEDs, lighting’s first appearance in demand-side management portfolios, and federal efficiency standards. We also explain the current state of the lighting market and where it’s headed in the future.

Download History of Lighting infographic (PDF)

This E Source infographic traces the history and future of lighting from Edison's invention in 1879 to the possible implementation Phase II of the US Energy Independence and Security Act in 2020
Federal policies Regulations Lighting Compact fluorescent lighting LEDs Technology standards and labeling