This September a ban on the manufacture and import of 100-watt and frosted incandescent light bulbs, in use since the 19th century, came into force. The move will be followed by further phase-out steps, until ultimately all conventional bulbs will be banned in four years’ time. The ban is one of a series of measures in the EU to tackle climate change.

The light bulbs are phased out to encourage the switch to more energy-efficient fluorescent or halogen lamps, which use up to 80% less electricity. The Commission estimates that it will help EU households to reduce their electricity use by 10-15%, saving up to 50 euro a year. As it concerns companies, saving energy makes sense as a business strategy and such investments pay themselves back within a few years. It is expected that the reduced electricity consumption will help the EU reduce its CO2 emissions by around 15 million tonnes a year.

While the overall aims of energy efficiency and cost reduction are broadly accepted, there has been some controversy about the way to achieve this. Critics say the new bulbs are gloomy, and can trigger headaches and rashes in people with light sensitive disorders.  Some consumers have been stockpiling the old-style versions over concerns about the higher cost of the long-life bulbs, or for medical and sentimental reasons. The scramble for conventional bulbs illuminates the challenges of persuading consumers to embrace environmentally friendly shopping habits – particularly in the midst of an economic crisis.

For further information, please consult http://ec.europa.eu/energy/efficiency/ecodesign/lumen/index_en.htm