TROY, NEW YORK

The Lighting Research Center recently announced its support of new energy-efficiency standards for fluorescent lamp ballasts that were agreed to by the U.S. Department of Energy, lighting manufacturers, and environmental groups. Subject to final rulemaking, the agreement will end the manufacture of magnetic ballasts for all commercial and industrial construction and renovation after April 1, 2005. The eventual result will be the widespread use of electronic ballasts in these applications.