What types of light bulbs have been banned since 1 September 2009?
The EU-wide ban on incandescent bulbs took effect on 1 September 2009. This measure is the result of framework directive (EUP 32/2005) of the EU Climate Change Programme („Eco-Design Requirements for Energy Using Products“). Conventional lamps are to be gradually phased out and replaced by more efficient ones. All non-clear lamps can no longer be produced or imported starting in September; remaining stocks may continue to be sold at retail locations. 'Non-clear' is defined as lamps with coated surfaces, i.e., frosted, pearl and opal.
The sequence of the ban is based on the energy-efficiency classes of the lamps. Starting on 1 September 2009, for example, the same regulation applies to clear lamps with an output of over 75 W unless they belong to energy-efficiency class A to C. In addition, all energy-efficiency class F/G incandescent bulbs will disappear from everyday use. Incandescent bulbs will be permanently phased out in stages by wattage by 2012.
The energy efficiency is determined based on the light output (luminous flux, units: lumen) per watt consumed. 'A' designates extremely high energy efficiency, whereas 'G' is extremely low.
The unit 'lumen' (lm) specified on the packaging indicates the luminous flux delivered by the bulb. The lumens provide a much better indicator of the brightness you can expect than the power consumption in watts (W).
Luminous flux of incandescent bulbs compared with those of LED-, Energy-saving- and Halogen-bulbs according to EU regulation. The new techniques consume less power (Watt) but deliver the same light output, so they are more efficient.
Overview: Luminous flux (lm)/power consumption (W) in acc. with EU regulation
Halogen lamps in efficiency class D and higher will be gradually phased out like incandescent bulbs. The Paulmann Halo+ halogen lamps fall outside of the ban until 2016 as they belong to energy-efficiency class C. The ban on incandescent bulbs only governs retail sales. Anyone still using standard incandescent bulbs at home is not required to replace these starting September 2009 – even if it often makes sense to replace these with more energy-efficient products. The EU directive contains several exceptions. These include fluorescent lamps, linear lamps as well as lamps installed in household appliances such as cookers, sewing machines and refrigerators, along with other specialty lamps.
