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.