Lights out for more incandescent bulbs

As of this week, an EU directive aimed at reducing the energy use of lighting came into force, meaning that retailers will no longer be allowed to sell 40W and 25W incandescent bulbs. Similar bans have come into effect in respect of 60W and 100W incandescent bulbs over the past three years. The restrictions are predicted to save 39 terawatt-hours of electricity across the EU annually by 2020. According to experts, new technology light bulbs, such as compact florescent lights (CFL), can save up to 80 per cent of the energy consumed by incandescent bulbs. The move will also cut carbon dioxide emissions as part of the EU’s wider climate change package.