Among Time Magazine’s top 50 inventions for 2009, 5 of them focused on home improvements and 4 of these were related to improving energy efficiency.

From the short abstracts provided by Time, at least one ($10 Million Lightbulb) has been entered into a contest for the most efficient replacement for today’s incandescent lightbulb demonstrating that many inventions are driven by government standards … or contests.

Times Magazines 50 Best Inventions of 2009

… Here’s what’s coming for your home!

It is truly amazing the products that are heading onto shelves soon. There are always government incentives to promote research into key issues but here you have private enterprise like Time hosting a contest. Amazing!

• $10 Million Lightbulb (#3) – submitted in the US Dept of Energy’s competition for an LED  alternative to the 60 watt lightbulb, which accounts for 50% of the US market.

• Title the Smart Thermostat by Time  (#4) – connects to your home systems and displays how much energy is being used, and how much it’s costing you. Then you decide where to cut usage.

• Solar Shingles (#13) – will cost less than traditional solar panels, they’ll also be easier to install. 10% to 15% less than traditional solar panels and will be cheaper and quicker to install.

• Bladeless Fan (#21) - looks cool and functions like air circulating in your attic.  Air is pulled through vents in the base  and pushed out by an impeller (Wikipedia) over a circular airfoil-shaped ramp that creates a steady stream of cool air, and because there are no blades … it’s safer.

Author: tinagleisner: Tina Gleisner is passionate about helping women home owners LEARN about their homes, CONNECT with home professionals committed to delivering quality home products, and CREATE homes that support their lifestyle. Leveraging her experience as the owner of a handyman business, Tina created the Assn of Women Home Owners at www.HomeTips4Women.com.