THE LATEST ENERGY LABELS FOR LIGHTING
For decades lighting and electrical appliances have used energy labels to provide information about the energy consumption and efficiency of products. The new energy label, introduced to the UK in 2021, aims to communicate the efficiency of products more simply by taking into account a broader range of factors related to energy performance.
Some of the key changes include:
- Energy classes altering from A++ to E to a simpler scale of A to G: A being the most energy efficient and G the least efficient.
- The energy criteria for each of the new classes are now far more rigorous, with the attention being focused on energy efficient LED modules and LED bulbs.
- A new QR code will be on the energy label, leading you to a database which will give additional information about your product. The idea is to promote transparency and easy accessibility of data.
Products that were once classed as A++ may move to a lower bracket on the newer scale. This doesn’t mean they are any less energy efficient, but that the measurement used for calculating the energy class has been significantly changed. Products are moved lower to make room for the potential of future advancements, as newer technologies aim to provide even more efficient solutions.
The new A rating has an efficiency equal to, or greater than, 210 lumens per watt, whilst the G rating has an efficiency of under 85 lumens per watt. These new ratings will help you make an informed choice when purchasing lighting products in the future.
The new energy labels were developed to benefit consumers by promoting a clear classification, reducing overall consumption with stricter ratings and using QR codes to provide additional information on a product.
Note: To avoid additional costs and pollution the old energy labels will not immediately go out of circulation and may still be found on packaging.