Stephen Chu's $50 Light Bulb -- Absolutely Nothing To Do With The Bakken

Wins government prize of $10 million 

HEB 60-watt bulb: a buck; this bulb: $50

Link here.

The U.S. government last year announced a $10 million award, dubbed the “L Prize,” for any manufacturer that could create a “green” but affordable light bulb.

Energy Secretary Steven Chu said the prize would spur industry to offer the costly bulbs, known as LEDs, at prices “affordable for American families.” There was also a “Buy America” component. Portions of the bulb would have to be made in the United States.

Now the winning bulb is on the market.

The price is $50.

Retailers said the bulb, made by Philips, is likely to be too pricey to have broad appeal. Similar LED bulbs are less than half the cost.

How the expensive bulb won a $10 million government prize meant to foster energy-efficient affordability is one of the curiosities that arise as the country undergoes a massive, mandated turnover from traditional incandescent lamps to more energy-efficient ones.

Something tells me Wal-Mart is not going to be stocking this bulb. The big question is: will you be able to find this bulb anywhere one year from now?