New Lighting Regulations

How prepared are you for the new lighting regulations?

The EU and the UK have been phasing out inefficient light sources to encourage a move towards lower energy LED lamps that will lower annual electricity bills for consumers and help cut carbon emissions in the UK by a reported 1.26 million tonnes.

The government’s package of energy efficient improvements also aims to reduce the number of luminaires with fixed bulbs, which account for 100,000 tonnes of electrical waste each year, in favour of sustainable luminaires that can be repaired with replaceable lamps and control gear.

After 1st September 2023 linear T8 fluorescent lamps (600/1200/1500mm sizes), mains voltage halogen capsules with G9 cap and 12V halogen capsules with G4/GY6.35 cap can no longer be placed on the market although they can be sold from stock. This follows legislation introduced in September 2021 in which the sale of certain halogen light sources and compact fluorescent tubes with integrated ballast was restricted.

However, LEDs offer many advantages over fluorescent tubes. LEDs have a higher lumen per watt and emit a more concentrated unidirectional light beam, which means light output is more focused with minimal light pollution. The service life of an LED is also considerably longer than a linear fluorescent and it is not affected by frequent switching making it ideal for use with sensor technology. If you purchase a quality LED luminaire with reliable, branded components, it will be virtually maintenance free, which significantly reduces the payback period despite higher initial costs over fluorescents. So, what are you waiting for?

For more information on the Government’s press release, visit:

End of halogen light bulbs spells brighter and cleaner future - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)