Another Reason to Buy Induction lamps

Now more then ever you should consider induction lamps

Electrical distributors and manufacturers are used to dramatic price changes for wire and cable due to increases in copper pricing.  They however, have never seen double-digit increases in fluorescent lamp prices like those like what has occurred in the last few weeks.

Reductions in Chinese exports of rare earth metals used in many different type of lamps have started a world wide price increase.  A company in Ohio sent an alert to distributors that the rare-earth phosphor used in compact fluorescent lamps rose by as much as 800 percent.

Lighting manufacturers have announced a number of price increases.  Letters from senior executives at GE (general electric), Osram Sylvania, Philips Lighting which have been posted online have explained the shortage of rare earth metals and announced price increases from 5 to 25 percent - depending on the types of lamps - and increases in ballast prices of up to approximately 10 percent.

Some distributors and manufacturers are focusing on keeping their customers informed about the reasons of the shortage and the latest rounds of pricing increases.  A posting at FSGI said, "Rare earth oxides are a critical component in the making of the phosphors used in linear and compact fluorescent lamps.  China controls over 95% of the global market for these rare earth oxides.  The Chinese Government has imposed taxes for the environmental clean-up and limitations on the amount of oxides available for export.