Electronic ballasts (EBs) stand for modern lighting technology, for energy and cost economy and for comfort. Where magnetic ballasts are required, low-loss ballasts (LLBs) are used instead of EBs. Ballasts always form part of the luminaire.

High pressure discharge lamps include halogen metal halide lamps with and without reflector, high pressure sodium-vapour lamps and high pressure mercury vapour lamps. Some of these lamps can be dimmed but dimmer control is not advisable at present because it means a compromise on lighting quality. Light colour, in particular, is affected when high pressure discharge lamps are dimmed.

EBs have the best energy balance. Above all, they heighten the luminous efficacy of both the lamp and the system (lamp + ballast). The economic life of lamps is extended by EB operation and the decline in luminous flux reduced. EBs start lamps fast, silently and without flicker, ensure constant, even lighting and are largely insensitive to voltage and frequency fluctuations. If an EB fails, it automatically disconnects from the line.