09/06/21

The next phase for light source labelling has been announced

 

Over the last few decades, the energy efficiency of our everyday appliances has improved significantly. We have been pleased to see the revised and optimised energy label on a wide range of household appliances and products. The new label simplifies the rating system and better reflects the array of energy efficient products on the market, supporting consumers and professional buyers alike.

Phased in gradually to include a select few products to begin with, expansion is just over the horizon. From the 1 October 2021, the rescaled energy label will appear on light sources. With this comes the introduction of a QR code where you can access further information about the product, much like the other products. This is a monumental change which will help to further encourage innovators to take efficiency to the next level.

 

Enlighten yourself about the changes

Energy efficient lighting not only helps you save a few pounds on your energy bills, but it also helps lower your CO2 emissions, all without compromising the quality of light in our homes. Since the ban on halogen bulb production in September 2018, the LED (light emitting diodes) bulb has stormed the market. These bulbs use around 70-80% less electricity than the equivalent traditional bulb. Considering that lighting accounts for around 16% of the total electricity use for a typical household, this offers a great chance to save.

If you are yet to make the switch to LED, here is your sign. When browsing for new lighting products, the label is an incredibly handy tool to help you choose the right one for your household. You can gauge the energy saving potential, voltage, whether or not the bulb is dimmable and so much more. When it comes to LED bulbs, they last longer so you won’t need to worry about changing too often. Thanks to the new label, all the information you need is available at the tip of your fingers, allowing you to easily distinguish between a variety of products.

Bright ideas to save energy and money

In light of the new label changes, we’d be remiss if we didn’t offer you some tips and tricks to help you save from the comfort of your own home:

  • Always turn off lights when you’re not using them. If you switch a light off for just a few seconds, you will save more energy than it takes for the light to start up again
  • Be aware of how many lights you have on in a room. If you have the main light on, do you need the lamp on too?
  • Arrange light switches so it is easy to turn them off, for example, place switches for rooms at or near the door
  • Use sensors or times on external lights, so they are only on when they need to be
  • Consider using transparent shades or fittings, as a dark lampshade can absorb some of the light a bulb emits
  • Ensure that you regularly clean any lamp shades or fittings to increase the impact of the lighting

Want to learn more about the label?

For all the information that you need, the label 2020 website has a range of pages detailing all the changes. Whether you are a consumer or a professional, our resources are here to help. If you are in the industry and want to support your consumers, everything you need to know is here.