Light Bulb Phase Out

The least energy efficient light bulbs began disappearing from shop shelves early in 2008.

This voluntary initiative which has been led by major retailers and energy suppliers has already seen the 150W and 100W and 60W bulbs removed from sale in major UK retailers.

The aim is to save up to 5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year by 2012 from UK electricity generation, the equivalent to the carbon emissions of a typical 1 Giga Watt coal fired power station.

Since the introduction of the voluntary phase out legislation from the EU has been adopted, this also phases out inefficient bulbs over a different time scale.

From September 1^st 2010, 75W incandescent clear bulbs will be banned although stocks already placed on the market before this date may be legally sold.

Whilst many major retailers have already stopped selling these bulbs under the UK voluntary agreement, this will now apply to all outlets. The 75W light bulb is common in continental Europe but not in the UK, so this particular stage will have a minimal effect on UK consumers. 

 Image Courtesy of OSRAM