NM Senator Named OSA Optics Advocate

New Mexico Sen. Jeff Bingaman was recognized today by the Optical Society of America (OSA) as its 2007 Advocate of Optics, for his leadership in seeking to increase federal investments in the sciences, including research and development, and for his support for energy-saving optical technologies like solid-state lighting (SSL). “Bingaman has shown tremendous commitment to advancing important science policy initiatives in the past year and throughout his career as a public official,” said OSA Executive Director Elizabeth Rogan. “His support of scientific R&D funding and alternative energy legislation has had a positive impact on

OSA President Joseph Eberly (left) presents New Mexico Senator Jeff Bingaman (right) with the 2007 Advocate of Optics trophy Thursday at Bingaman's Capitol Hill office.

energy policy designed to make the US more energy-independent.” Bingaman chaired OSA’s Senate Science and Technology Caucus briefing last summer on SSL innovations in optics and helped draw attention to the importance of optics and photonics by focusing on the energy benefits of SSL -- an optics technology used in highly efficient LEDs. As an alternative to incandescent and fluorescent lighting used in most homes and businesses, LEDs have the potential to reduce the nation’s electricity consumption by 10 percent, at a savings of approximately $30 billion per year, OSA said. OSA President Joseph Eberly presented Sen. Bingaman with a trophy at a ceremony today at Bingaman's Capitol Hill office.