European Commission Info about Incandescent

The continuation of a European initiative to reduce energy consumed by incandescent lamps has moved into its next phase. The process began in September 2009 when equivalents of clear incandescent light bulbs of 100W or more were required to be of C-class standard, phasing-out incandescent 100W light bulbs. 

As this technology reduces and LED increases, Glowled with be there each step of the way ensuring you have a viable and reliable LED equivalent product. If you are ahead of this already and have begun using 40w-60w lamps, check our products for LED equivalents now!

Q: Why has the EU decided to phase out conventional incandescent bulbs?

A: To reduce CO2emissions (by about 15 million tonnes a year). Lighting can account for as much as one-fifth of household electricity consumption. The most efficient lighting technologies use up to 5 times less electricity than the least efficient. Energy saving bulbs can reduce a household's total electricity consumption by 10-15%, saving the EU some 40 billion kilowatt hours a year (roughly equal to the annual consumption of Romania).

Q: How will I benefit?

A: Apart from the long-term environmental benefits, energy saving bulbs can easily save you €50 a year (including the price of the bulbs). The money saved overall – €5-10bn a year – will end up going back into the EU economy, boosting overall prosperity.

Q: When and how will inefficient light bulbs be phased-out?

A: Household bulbs that cannot meet the new EU energy efficiency requirements are gradually being phased out between now and 2012. No non-clear incandescent bulbs can meet these requirements – they have already been withdrawn. Clear incandescent bulbs are being phased out gradually. Those of 100W or more have already been phased out. This limit will be reduced gradually until 2012 (75W in 2010, 60W in 2011, 40W and under in 2012).

Q: What proportion of EU light bulbs were energy-inefficient before the new rules (in 2009)?

A: About 75% (2.1 billion out of a total stock of 3.9 billion bulbs).

Q: What about special purpose bulbs (e.g. oven lights, Christmas lights)?

A: Where special purpose bulbs can't be replaced by energy-efficient alternatives, they will not be affected by the phase-out.

Q: What about non-compliant (incandescent) bulbs already in stock with retailers?

A: These will continue to be sold until stocks run out. The rules will apply only to new bulbs shipped for sale in the EU.