Lighting Giant Named One of Most Disruptive Companies in America


Not exactly a term of endearment for one of our country's leading technology firms and one led by the man who got me into the energy services business shortly after leaving government service.

Philips, the leader in LED lighting technologies has been identified in the field of Energy and Materials as one of 2013's 50 Disruptive Companies, MIT Technology Review's annual list of the world's most innovative technology companies.  The dubious honor will be highlighted in the March/April edition of MIT Technology Review that hits newsstands on March 5, 2013.

President and CEO of Philips Lighting North America Bruno Biasiotta interviewed me in February 2010 for a position with Johnson Controls when he served as the General Manager of Building Efficiency. Bruno joined Philips in July 2012.

Over the last year, Philips has worked to drive down the cost of LED light bulbs by introducing 88 ENERGY STAR qualified LED bulbs that allow these products to qualify for utility rebates and lower the cost to consumers, including equivalents for 60, 75 and 100-watt incandescent bulbs.  The company has also introduced disruptive lighting technologies such as the award-winning L Prize bulb and Philips hue, the world's smartest light bulb which can be managed from iPhone or Android devices.

Publisher and editor in chief of MIT Technology Review Jason Pontin said that the pace at which technology changes is astounding. "This issue celebrates organizations at the forefront, displaying 'disruptive innovation' that will prove to surpass the competition, transform an industry, and change our lives," said Pontin. "Philips is making efficient LED light bulbs more affordable and one new bulb can even be controlled by phones and tablets." 

The strategy is simple: As LED light bulbs use up to 85 percent less energy than traditional bulbs while lasting up to 25 times longer-get them in the hands of consumers.

Philips is striving to bring value through this effort.  In the process being praised or vilified for their efforts to advance a growing industry.