The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has published BL 2-2009 Energy Efficiency for Electronic Ballasts for T8 Fluorescent Lamps. The standard was developed by NEMA’s Ballast Section and revises the 2007 version.

BL 2 contains energy-efficiency requirements for evaluating electronic ballasts designed for use with four-foot 32-watt T8 fluorescent lamps with a lumen output greater than or equal to 3100 lumens. It covers definitions, requirements, and markings. Ballasts that meet these requirements are labeled NEMA Premium®.

“In NEMA BL 2-2009, NEMA’s Ballast Section has expanded the NEMA Premium® program for T8 fluorescent ballasts to include additional ballast types, and has refined the performance requirements for products already in the program,” said Ballast Section Vice Chair John Green. “This standard is further evidence of the industry’s commitment to energy-efficient lighting.”

The contents and scope of BL 2 may be viewed, or a hardcopy or electronic copy purchased for $30, by visiting http://www.nema.org/stds/bl2.cfm, or by contacting IHS at 800-854-7179 (within the U.S.), 303-397-7956 (international), 303-397-2740 (fax), or global.ihs.com.

NEMA is the association of electrical and medical imaging equipment manufacturers. Founded in 1926 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., its approximately 450 member companies manufacture products used in the generation, transmission and distribution, control, and end use of electricity. These products are used in utility, industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential applications. The association’s Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) Division represents manufacturers of cutting-edge medical diagnostic imaging equipment including MRI, CT, x-ray, and ultrasound products. Worldwide sales of NEMA-scope products exceed $120 billion. In addition to its headquarters in Rosslyn, Virginia, NEMA also has offices in Beijing and Mexico City.