After incandescent, now halogen off the market

Since September 2009, energy inefficient light sources are being taken off the market step by step. This year it's time for high voltage halogen lamps. These are not allowed on the market within the European Union from September 1, 2016, as part of the third phase of the EU Directive 1194/2012.

For whom does this ban has consequences? 
The regulation will initially affect lamp manufacturers and dealers, because the ban will apply for putting incandescent lamps on the market. This means that people at home do not have to replace these lamps immediately. However, the availability of high-voltage halogen lamps with reflector, will decrease after September 1, 2016. The consumer will feel the impact of the regulation when stocks begin to run out.

How do I recognise the lamps that are banned?
The most popular lamps covered by the directive, are the high-voltage halogen lamps with reflector. These can be identified by the following characteristics:

• Reflector lamps emit a directed light on the front, unlike for example pear-shaped lamps that spread light in all directions.
• This concerns mostly the GU10-, E27- or E14-foot.
• The outside of the lamp is made out of glass.
• High-voltage halogen lamps with reflector are mainly used in luminaires, spotlights and track systems.
• The relevant fixtures work without transformer.

What are the alternatives? 
Alternatively, use LED reflector lamps. Replacing the bulbs is simple: take out the conventional halogen lamp and put the saving LED bulb in - done! A tip for those who like to watch the pennies: LED bulbs are more expensive than comparable halogen lamps, but pay for themselves due to the substantially lower energy costs and much longer life. There are, however, certain conditions when LED lamps are being used with dimmers.