Energy Saving Light Bulbs
A bright idea for your pocket and the environment
The government,
retailers and energy companies are working together to phase out
inefficient light bulbs in accordance with regulations adopted by
the European commission.
As of 1st September 2009 the following requirements were
introduced :
- Clear lamps equivalent to 100W incandescent lamps, or above,
must be rated a minimum C- class under the EU energy rating
labels (ratings A-G. A being the most efficient, G the least
efficient)
- Non-clear (frosted/pearl) lamps must be a minimum A-class.
- Criteria regarding start up time, lamp lifetime and warm up
time of Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) ,non CFLs and LEDs.
From January 2010 all traditional bulbs higher than 40W will be
phased out. In 2011 all remaining 40W and 25W A-shape GLS (General
Lighting Service) bulbs as well as 60W GLS candles and golf balls
will be phased out.
As the phase out of traditional bulbs progresses, you will begin
to see ‘lumens’ printed on light bulb packaging.
- The wattage of a bulb actually tells you how much electricity
it uses.
- Lumens is used to describe the light output of a bulb.
A traditional 60 watt bulb will consume 60 watts of electricity
and provide light of around 700 lumens. An energy saving bulb might
only consume 12 watts to provide the same level of light.
The light quality of energy saving bulbs can’t be directly
compared with that of a clear traditional bulb, as they have to be
translucent (not transparent). However, compare them to soft tone
traditional bulbs, and you won’t see any difference.
Energy saving light bulbs available are:
- Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs): these are
the most common - available in stick shape, candle shape, small or
medium screw and bayonet fittings. Dimmer switches require special
dimming energy saving light bulbs.
- Energy saving halogen light bulbs: a good
option if you have halogen lights in your home. They consume around
30% less electricity than standard halogen bulbs.
- LED lights: are progressing rapidly and can
now be used to replace existing halogen.
100w bulbs waste up to 95% of energy as heat? Fit one
energy saving light bulb and save on average £3 a year – change all
your bulbs and save up to £45 per year.
Disposal
Contact
Tel: 01304 872218
Email: energy@dover.gov.uk
