End of the road for old bulbs

Ban on light bulbs a real turn-off

Updated: 05:28, Monday August 31, 2009

Shoppers in the United Kingdom are stockpiling traditional light bulbs while they still have the chance.

An EU ban comes into force on Tuesday making it illegal for retailers and wholesalers to import most of the old-style bulbs.

It means once stocks have run out, the only ones available will be the more pricey, low energy variety.

Roger King, who runs Hampton Hill Hardware in Middlesex, said: 'I've taken orders this week for quantities in the 50s and 100s.'

'People don't like being told what to do for a start. Many are concerned that they are not going to be able to see properly with the new type of light because it rapidly diminishes in effectiveness.'

But the evidence suggests energy-saving bulbs have come a long way since they first went on sale.

While much more expensive, these days they are said to be as bright as conventional ones but use a fifth of the energy and last up to 10 times longer.

It is estimated that each bulb could save as much as $77 before they need to be replaced.

Energy Saving Trust spokesman, Richard Llloyd, said: 'There is no time limit on when people have to replace their bulbs but the question would be: why wouldn't you?

'They save you money, they save energy, they could save one million tons of CO2, which is the equivalent of taking 70,000 cars off the road.'

But one shopper at Mr King's hardware store was not impressed: 'It's probably another big brother attitude, everybody trying to tell each other what they should and shouldn't be doing.'

Another was happy with the change: 'There are a lot of people who are very selfish and think about their lifetime but we have got to think about our children and our children's children.'

The first bulbs to go will be conventional frosted or pearl bulbs.

Time is also running out to buy clear 100 watt bulbs. Lower wattage ones will be phased out by 2012.