Which lamps are affected?
The phasing out of incandescent lamps is governed by EC Regulation 244/2009 "Ecodesign requirements for non-directional household lamps". It applies to
It covers all non-clear (frosted) incandescent lamps, halogen lamps and energy-saving lamps as well as all clear incandescent lamps and halogen lamps.
Non-clear lamps
Since 1 September 2009, the only non-clear lamps admitted to the market are those with an Energy Efficiency Class A rating. This criterion is met at present only by energy-saving lamps. It will also apply to frosted LED lamps, which are not yet available in this energy class.
All non-clear incandescent lamps and halogen lamps will be excluded right from the beginning because they can be replaced by other non-clear lamps – energy saving lamps.
Clear lamps
Since 1 September 2009, incandescent lamps and halogen lamps with Energy Efficiency Class F and G ratings are no longer admitted to the market. Energy Efficiency Class E and D lamps will be phased out in stages. As of 2012, compliance with Efficiency Class C will be a minimum requirement. As no incandescent lamp satisfies this requirement, incandescent lamps will then be completely eliminated.
The "Phase-out Schedule" shows the precise dates for the withdrawal of clear incandescent lamps and halogen lamps.
As of September 2016, halogen lamps will need to have at least an Energy Efficiency Class B rating. There are already halogen lamps available which meet these requirements. Apart from this, an exception will be made for clear halogen lamps with R7s and G9 bases. They may continue to be put into circulation even though they have only an Energy Efficiency Class C rating.
Exceptions
The EU regulation makes the following exceptions:
- directional light sources (lamps with reflectors) and luminaires. Both will be covered by a second domestic lamp regulation.
- incandescent lamps with an operating voltage < 60 V with E14, E27, B22 or B15 base and no integrated transformer
- incandescent lamps with S14, S15, S19 bases (linear lamps) – exception applies until 2012
- fluorescent lamps without integrated ballast
Not covered
Regulation 244/2009 "Ecodesign requirements for non-directional household lamps" does not apply to special-purpose lamps such as those used in ovens or refrigerators. These lamps will not be removed from the market even at a later date, although their intended use will need to be indicated on the packaging.
