THE END FOR
FLUORESCENT LIGHT SOURCES

and other energy guzzlers

Back in 2018, the European Commission and the EU Member States agreed to tighten energy efficiency requirements. This did not apply exclusively to the lighting sector, but there were significant changes here, particularly regarding fluorescent light sources and other so-called energy-saving light sources. 

On 25 December 2019, the new Ecodesign Directive for lighting products came into force. The aim is to contribute to the EU’s climate and efficiency targets through efficient and effective lighting. Although fluorescent light sources and halogen incandescent bulbs are commonly referred to as ‘energy-saving’, they are actually the bigger energy consumers when compared to LED technology. Production is therefore to be phased out and gradually replaced by LED solutions, which are up to 70% more efficient. This is not only environmentally friendly, but also definitely worth it for your wallet, as we can save a huge amount on energy costs!

ALREADY INSTALLED FLUORESCENT LIGHT SOURCES?

Neither private individuals nor businesses are required to remove and dispose of all fluorescent light sources that are already installed. However, as soon as they stop working, they should be disposed of properly and replaced with more efficient alternatives. Please do not simply dispose of faulty light sources in the glass recycling bin or general waste. Gas-discharge lamps in particular (including fluorescent lamps and energy-saving light sources) contain toxic substances such as mercury, which must not be released into the environment. They are classified as hazardous waste and can be handed in either at recycling centres or at retail outlets, where the light sources can be recycled, at least in part.

ALTERNATIVES TO FLUORESCENT LIGHT SOURCES

Around a fifth of energy consumption is accounted for by lighting. The most efficient solution is therefore to switch to modern LED lighting. In both domestic and commercial settings, LED light sources reduce energy costs significantly and sustainably by up to 70%, so the potential for savings is huge. Modern LED light sources now also excel in terms of light quality. This leads, for example, to higher productivity in the workplace or a significantly greater sense of well-being at home. It is therefore worthwhile in every area.

DATES AND REGULATIONS

Facts and figures on EU rules and regulations: 

Gradual phase-out of energy-intensive light sources such as halogen reflectors and incandescent bulbs since 2009. 

• From 1 January 2019, high-pressure mercury vapour light sources were banned under the Mercury Regulation. 
• From 1 September 2021: Entry into force of the new Ecodesign Regulation for more efficient lighting. 
• From 1 September 2021, compact fluorescent lamps (so-called energy-saving light sources) with built-in ballasts may no longer be placed on the market. 
• There was a transition period until 1 September 2023 for particularly small halogen light sources and T8 fluorescent tubes. 
• Also from 1 September 2021, a new scale was introduced for the energy class labels for light sources – ranging from A to G.
• From 1 September 2023, the general ban will also apply to T8 fluorescent tubes. 
• Small halogen bulbs will also be withdrawn from sale. These are the G9, G4 and G6.35 pin-base bulbs.

With the highly efficient LED light sources from our range, you can replace almost any old fluorescent tube. One thing is certain: it makes a huge difference, both in terms of light quality and on your electricity bill. The progress this represents in terms of sustainability and environmental protection goes without saying. Free from toxins such as mercury, produced in a resource-efficient manner and extremely long-lasting. We couldn’t leave a better legacy for future generations.