What are the ENERGY STAR requirements for CFLs?
The power factor (PF) of today’s ENERGY STAR rated CFLs must be 0.50 or greater (average of ten samples). Power Factor is a measure of how effectively a device converts input current and voltage into useful electric power. Many CFLs have a 0.6 PF rating. Look for the HPF (High Power Factor) designation in CFL nomenclature such as the CF15/DQ/27K/HPF bulbs from Genesis Lamp. ENERGY STAR rated CFL lumen maintenance must be greater than 90.0% of initial (100-hour) lumen output @ 1,000 hours of rated life and greater than 80.0% of initial lumen output at 40% of rated life (e.g., @ 4,000 hours for a 10,000 hour CFL). The Color Rendering Index (CRI) must be greater than 80. This compares to lumen maintenance of a little over 90% at 40% of rated life and CRI in the mid 80’s for fluorescent tube lamps.
