Impact and delay of the phase out of inefficient light bulbs policy

Panel: 7. Appliances, product policy and the ICT supply chain

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Daniel Cabrera, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Jean-Luc Bertholet, Université de Genève, Switzerland
Bernard Lachal, Université de Genève, Switzerland

Abstract

In February 2009, the European Commission decided to implement a planned phase out of inefficient (incandescent and conventional halogen) light bulbs (2009/125/CE and 2009/244/CE). Switzerland started its own policy measures a few months before those of the EU27-member body and later followed the EU’s line from September 2010.

This paper presents an analysis of the impact of this policy by analysing an energy efficiency program addressing low to medium income households. The analysis is founded on multiple surveys which took place from 2009 to 2014. An important component of this program is the replacement of inefficient incandescent and halogen lamps by efficient ones (CFLs and LEDs). Data concerning the replaced inefficient lamps has been gathered at every one of the campaigns carried out by the program. This allows for continuous information on the evolution of inefficient lighting equipment of dwellings for the last five years.

While the agenda of market withdrawal was precisely established, the phase out of inefficient lamps operating in households has an inherent inertia that appears to be more important than expected. Indeed, there is a significant number of incandescent lamps still operating in households. In addition, the main substitute for the banned lamps has become the halogen lamp. Our paper appraises the discrepancy concerning the evolution of the stock of inefficient lamps between the projections that were made in 2008 for the 2009/244/CEE directive and the real situation in households of the city of Geneva-Switzerland.

The first five stages of the regulation have already been implemented and it is likely that the outcome will influence the implementation of stage six.