A bill in the Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives would block provisions in a 2007 energy law that effectively ban the 100-watt incandescent bulb next year.

Bloomberg reported that repealing a phase-out of 100-watt incandescent bulbs would jeopardize $12.5 billion in consumer savings by 2020. According to one analysis, the average household’s energy costs would be cut by $85, or 7 percent, every year when the standards are fully implemented.

“Clearly, consumers, the economy and the environment will suffer if these standards are repealed,” said Jim Presswood, federal energy policy director for the National Resources Defense Council.

Supporters say the 2007 energy law, which was signed by Republican President George W. Bush and requires bulbs to be about 30 percent more efficient than the traditional incandescent, could also reduce air pollution by eliminating the need for 33 power plants.

The bill that could block those provisions may be voted on next week. Click here for a related Business Record story.