NEMA’s index for incandescent lamps declined 17.2 percent for the third quarter, registering a record low reading of 46.5. The index showed a year-over-year decline of nearly 19.0 percent. Shipments of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) waned as well, with the index dipping 18.2 percent to 168.8 — a level not seen since 2006. Moreover, CFL shipments decreased 12.7 percent on a year-over-year basis.      

CFLs continue to garner nearly one out of every four lamp sales despite the downturn in shipments during the third quarter. There were minor fluctuations in the market shares for CFLs and incandescent lamps during the quarter, posting 24.4 and 75.6 shares, respectively. The 1:4 sales ratio is expected to continue until the first phase of the new incandescent lamp efficiency regulations established by EISA 2007 take effect beginning in 2012.