WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Time to see the light! On Jan. 1, 2012, new energy efficient standards went into effect and incandescent light bulbs are being phased out in the United States. The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 established these efficiency standards as outlined by energy.gov.

New energy efficiency standards in the US require that light bulbs use 25 percent less energy. There are several options available right now that provide the same level of, or more, brightness while saving energy.

The new lighting standard, measured in lumens, measures the level of brightness. Lumens are to light as gallons are to milk. For example, if you want to replace an incandescent bulb that is 60 watts, you will want to look for the measure of 800 lumens.

Over the next few years, we will see more in the way of lighting choices that offer the same lighting levels that also save energy. The savings will add up as we upgrade bulbs throughout our buildings and homes.

Another benefit to the new lighting standards is the new bulbs have longer life spans. When shopping for lighting, look at the labels on the packages. The new standards required new product labels for lighting, so look for the lighting facts and note the brightness number (the amount of lumens).

As a part of the energy efficiency initiatives for greening up Whiteman you will start to see more of our buildings with LED lighting. These replacement projects will help reduce electrical demand and consumption while improving lighting efficiency throughout the base.