Government rejects criticism of low-energy lights
February 9, 2009
The Government has rejected a number of the criticisms aimed at the new low-energy light bulbs, namely that they give insufficient light for reading and are potentially hazardous to the environment due to their mercury content.
Lord Hunt, who is responsible for energy innovation, defended the decision to dispense with the current incandescent bulbs, saying that the move was essential in combating climate change. He claimed old bulbs waste 95% of the energy they use as heat and said that phasing them out would help cut emissions and energy bills. He also said that alternatives like "halogen lookalike" bulbs were available for those who were concerned about the light levels.
These comments, however, have done little to allay the fears of those who are worried about the variable quality and safety aspects of the new bulbs, as well as the problems of reduced brightness for those with poor eyesight. There is also anger regarding the manner in which the decision to "ditch" the old bulbs was made. Lord Hunt said that the Government was looking at safer and brighter alternatives.
Meanwhile, a company in Seattle has developed a new type of environmentally friendly light bulb that functions like a TV tube. The new products will have the same fittings as ordinary light bulbs and are reputed to last for 6,000 hours.
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