We told you about the phasing out of incandescent light bulbs, which began this year with the 100-watt version, and since learned of another light bulb option you may consider as the Edison invention forever goes dim.

New York City-based Vu1 Corporation says its Vu1 light bulb eliminates the risk of mercury poisoning from broken CFLs and the high cost of expensive LEDs, the two options for green homes, and provides a soft, natural luminescence.

The Vu1 contains no toxic materials and is safe for both everyday use and disposal, officials said. "While CFLs had been lauded as a more energy-efficient alternative to incandescent bulbs, their dirty little secret has finally come to life: they contain mercury, a neurotoxin. With the Vu1, there’s no risk of exposure to dangerous gases or other harmful substances," the press release states.

Priced at $14.98 per bulb, the Vu1 is less expensive than LEDs for home use.

“In our experience, people want to buy energy efficient products, but not at the expense of making your home unattractive,” said Vu1 CEO Scott Blackstone. “Most other bulbs trade light quality for energy efficiency and people have been disappointed by that. We’ve achieved a better balance with a very efficient product that delivers good quality of light at an affordable price.”

The Vu1 R30 bulb is the first in the Vu1 portfolio to receive UL certification and is specifically designed for direct replacement of standard 65W bulbs for recessed lighting. Drawing less than 20W, the Vu1 is 70 percent more efficient than its conventional incandescent counterpart and lasts up to five times longer—11,000 hours on average, according to the company.

Vu1 R30 bulbs are available at Lowes.com and at Lowe’s stores beginning in February, complete with a display to showcase the color rendering differences between the Vu1, CFL, incandescent and LED technologies.