GE's new Energy Smart(R) 9-watt LED bulb operates differently, distributing light like a traditional 40-watt incandescent bulb while delivering excellent light output over its 25,000-hour rated life. they are on retail store shelves later this year.

GE's new LED bulb produces 450 lumens, provides 77 percent energy savings and lasts more than 25 times as long as a standard incandescent bulb. The LED bulb also better directs light downward and all around, performing similarly to the incandescent bulbs that consumers have known and used forever. "Snow cone" LED bulbs tend to project light just out the top of a lampshade, because LEDs are inherently directional light sources.

GE is addressing the issues of LED quality and reliability by pushing for a universal set of LED performance standards. Much of its work with NEMA, the Department of Energy/ENERGY STAR, ANSI, Intertek and IESNA centers on the development of measurement, efficiency and performance guidelines that clarify LED standards. A proven expert in the LED category, GE has sold more than 25 million linear feet of LED lighting.

GE's new LED bulb is expected to receive ENERGY STAR(R) certification as an omni-directional LED replacement lamp. That means it emits light all around the bulb.