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Shedding light on a bright idea – phasing out traditional light bulbs
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It seems strange that at a time when everyone is being urged to conserve energy, most of us are still using light bulbs that date back to 1879. The incandescent light bulb converts only 10% of its power into light, while wasting the rest on heat. A 21st century update is long overdue. Governments across the world are phasing out these bulbs now or in the near future, and the EU will start its own phase-out on 1 September.

Starting on that date with 100 watt and above incandescent bulbs, the wasteful incandescent lamps will be gradually removed from the EU market. By 2020 this will save enough energy to power 11 million households each year while saving every family more than £42 (€50) on their annual electricity bill. In the fight against climate change, every contribution will make a difference. It is up to legislators to spot these opportunities and create the optimum conditions for change. Seatbelts in cars ended up saving millions of lives because laws made their use obligatory. The legislation is based on good solid science and national governments, consumer organisations and the industry were involved in the decision. This is why inefficient lighting will be phased out over a number of years to allow consumers and companies time to adapt to the change.
    Shedding light on a bright idea – phasing out traditional light bulbs

    There are a number of advantages to the newer bulbs, beyond saving energy.

    People can, for example, opt to use transparent improved incandescent bulbs with halogen technology, which provide exactly the same type and quality of light as conventional incandescent bulbs. They also come in the same shapes and appearances, and give full light output as soon as they are switched on.

    Light emitting diodes are as efficient as compact fluorescent lamps (what most of us think of as energy-saving bulbs), but do not contain mercury and last even longer. They can already replace both clear and frosted light bulbs and are likely to become alternatives to the full range of lamps in the near future.

    In addition, families will be able to see the difference in their bills. Although initially more expensive to buy than incandescent bulbs, the difference is quickly recovered, as the new bulbs use only as little as around one fifth of the electricity, while lasting 6 to 10 times as long. Over its lifetime, a typical compact fluorescent lamp will provide about a £50 (€60) saving.

    We are also convinced that the changeover will encourage companies to innovate, meaning there will be even more types of lighting to choose from in the future, each with their own advantages.

    So above all, the gradual phase-out of incandescent bulbs is being done to save energy, with the environmental benefits that this brings, and will also save people money. And the time is definitely right for such a change.

    A new website with information about the range of bulbs, and much more, is available from 1 September at www.eu-lumen.eu

     

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    Last update: 12/12/2009  |Top