Phasing out of old-style light bulbs starts today
Light bulbs are ‘going green’ as part of new legislation to cut wasted energy and high electricity bills.
From today, 100 watt and frosted incandescent (or old-style) light bulbs will be phased out and replaced with energy-efficient alternatives such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Defra has been working with all major retailers and UK energy suppliers in preparation. A number of chains, including B&Q, Sainsbury’s and Tesco, are already part of a voluntary initiative to phase out traditional bulbs.
The UK has been at the forefront of efforts to cut down energy-inefficient products which cost people more money to run and are bad for the environment as they cause higher carbon emissions.
Environment Minister Dan Norris said “This is great news for people who will pay less in electricity and even better news for the planet, as this will amount to 1 million tonnes of saved CO2 per year by 2020. We can no longer rely on light bulbs which waste 95 per cent of their energy as heat.”
Energy efficient bulbs now come in every size, shape and design, with dimmable versions and bayonet and screw fittings. The technology in low energy bulbs has improved greatly and now the variety and choice is there for every household or business. Further information is available by visiting the links below.
Further information
Page last modified: 05 August 2009
Page published: 05 August 2009