Energy Labels

Energy Efficiency

In the world of LED lighting, energy efficiency is crucial. It not only affects our energy consumption but also the choices we make when buying new lamps. Since January 1, 2021, the European Union has introduced a new energy labeling regulation requiring an energy efficiency label for LED lighting. In this article, we will delve deeper into the details of this new label, the calculation method, and the transition from the old label to the new system.

In brief

• The label now uses a scale from A to G, where A has the highest light output combined with the most energy-efficient power and G the lowest.
• Energy efficiency is calculated by relating the lamp's wattage to the light output in lumens (lm).
• It is important to understand that the new lowest energy labels F and G do not mean the lamp is not energy efficient.
• LED lighting with F or G classification can still be very energy efficient and even consume much less wattage than LED lamps with, for example, an A to D label.
• LED lamps with labels A to D have higher light output, but in many cases, this extra brightness may be unnecessary.
• LED lighting with an F or G label can be an excellent and energy-efficient choice, especially when the extra brightness of lamps with a higher label is not necessary.

The New Energy Efficiency Label

The new energy efficiency label for LED lighting provides consumers with a clear overview of the energy efficiency of a lamp from A to G, where A is the most efficient label and G the least efficient. Unlike the old label, which used classes from A++ to E, the new label uses a scale based on lumens per watt (lm/W). The higher the lumens per watt, the more efficient the lamp.

Calculation Method

To determine the energy efficiency label, the ratio between light output (expressed in lumens) and power consumption (expressed in watts) is calculated. This ratio is known as the lumen-per-watt value (lm/W). The energy efficiency label is determined based on the following guidelines.

Calculate the Energy Efficiency Index (EEI):

EEI = (Energy consumption / Luminous flux) * 1000. Energy consumption must be expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and luminous flux in lumens.

After this calculation, energy labels are applied to LED lamps with the following Lumen/Watt efficiency:

Energy Label	Lumen/Watt Efficiency
	210>
	185 - 210
	160 - 185
	135 - 160
	110 - 135
	85 - 110
	<85

 

Saving Energy

By switching to more energy-efficient lighting products, you can save about 30 euros per year. With more efficient lighting products, Europe can also save up to 34 TWh of electricity per year by 2030 and prevent emissions of approximately 7 million tons of CO2 per year. (source: European Commission)

Here are some tips to save energy with LED lighting:

1. Replace old lamps: Replace traditional incandescent and halogen lamps with energy-efficient LED lamps. LED lamps consume much less energy and have a longer lifespan.
2. Choose the right light output: Choose LED lamps with the appropriate light output (indicated in lumens) for the desired application. This prevents over-illumination and unnecessary energy consumption.
3. Use dimmers: Use dimmable LED lamps in spaces where you want to adjust the light intensity. This can reduce energy consumption and create ambiance.
4. Use motion sensors: Install motion sensors in spaces that are not constantly occupied, such as corridors, stairwells, and storage rooms. This way, the light only turns on when needed, saving energy.
5. Switch to smart lighting systems: Use smart lighting systems that allow you to control and schedule lighting remotely. This optimizes and adjusts energy consumption to your needs.
6. Make use of natural light: Make optimal use of natural daylight by keeping curtains and blinds open. This reduces the use of artificial lighting.
7. Maintain your lighting: Keep your LED lamps clean and free of dust, as dirt can reduce light output. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longer lifespan.
8. Turn off lights when not needed: Train yourself and others at home to turn off lights in unused rooms. A simple habit that can save a lot of energy.
9. Invest in quality: Choose high-quality LED lamps from reliable brands. Although they may be a bit more expensive, they last longer and offer more efficient lighting.

Differences with the Old Energy Efficiency Label

The old energy efficiency label used a different approach, where the energy class was mainly determined by the lamp's power consumption. However, this did not provide a complete picture of actual efficiency. The new label takes into account both light output and power consumption, resulting in a more accurate representation of efficiency.

Requirements for Companies in the Netherlands

For companies offering LED lighting in the Netherlands, it is important to comply with the energy labeling regulation. This means that all LED lamps placed on the market after March 1, 2023, must be provided with the new energy efficiency label. The label must be clearly visible to consumers and contain the correct information, such as lumen-per-watt value, power consumption, and energy efficiency class.

Conclusion

The new energy efficiency label is an important step forward in the world of LED lighting. It provides consumers with better insight into the energy efficiency of LED lamps and helps them make conscious choices. By focusing on lumens per watt, lamps are encouraged to be more efficient and thus contribute to energy savings and sustainability.

With the new calculation method, consumers can quickly and easily compare the energy efficiency of LED lamps and make the right choice based on their specific needs. By striving for lamps with a higher lumen-per-watt value, consumers can not only save energy but also enjoy brighter and higher-quality light.

For companies in the Netherlands, it is important to be aware of the energy labeling regulation and ensure their LED lamps meet the requirements. By correctly applying the new energy efficiency label, companies can inform consumers about the efficiency of their products and contribute to a more sustainable lighting industry.

In short, the new energy efficiency label for LED lighting offers transparency and clarity to consumers, stimulates the development of energy-efficient lamps, and contributes to a more sustainable future. It enables consumers to make informed choices when buying LED lighting and supports global efforts to promote energy efficiency.