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Lights go out for halogen

Inefficient

The measure is part of the EU’s Ecodesign Directive(244/2009) which has seen the phasing out of various inefficient lighting sources since September 2009, when 100W bulbs were banned. The legislation covers more than 40 product groups, including boilers, light bulbs and fridges that are responsible for 40% of EU greenhouse gas emissions. The justification is to reduce carbon emissions from lighting and cut energy use. The energy-sapping bulbs are to be replaced with efficient ones like LEDs or compact fluorescent bulbs.

Stay of execution has ended

Halogen bulbs had a reprieve until September 2018 because manufacturers argued that LEDs weren’t yet a viable replacement due to higher upfront costs, particularly for the brighter 60-100W equivalent bulbs.

This was the first time the EU had agreed to delay one of these measures, but few could understand why given that LEDs were freely available at the time and there was plenty of evidence to show they would cut costs over their lifespan.

Better options on the table

Not many products last for 60 years without better options coming to the market and light bulbs are no different - calculations have been made on their longevity and value:

1. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that a halogen bulb will last 2,000 hours whereas an LED can go on for 15,000-25,000 hours.
2. Which? has calculated that six 42W halogen spotlights will cost £28.80 to run for a year, but 10W LEDs would only cost £6.96. We found these bulbs available for £0.89 and £2.54 respectively, so it’s a pretty handsome saving with the LEDs.

Note. Don’t be put off by any early experiences you had with energy-efficient bulbs - the technology has improved dramatically. Nine out of ten of those surveyed by Which? in 2017 said that they were happy with the quality of light from LEDs.

Which ones?

The bulbs affected are the classic-style halogen bulbs (known as non-directional bulbs) made of glass, operated without a transformer and which emit light in all directions.

Cap types affected include the standard fitting E27 Edison screw or B22 bayonet cap bulbs - the most common type in UK households - and the smaller E14 and B15 types (see The next step ).

In stock

You may still find halogen bulbs for sale as retailers are allowed to sell off existing stock.

Tip. Don’t be swayed by the cheaper purchase price tag, as buying halogens is a false economy. The upfront cost of LEDs might still seem steep but it’s coming down all the time and will continue to do so as halogens disappear.

For a link for further information from the Carbon Trust on energy efficient lighting, visit http://tipsandadvice-environment.co.uk/download (EN 13.04.03).