How Lighting Technologies Are Developing and Where the World Is Going

The Historical Context: The Phoebus Cartel

In 1924, the Phoebus cartel was established, including major companies such as General Electric (GE), Osram, Philips, and Compagnie des Lampes. The primary objective was to control and regulate the production and sale of incandescent light bulbs. One key aspect was standardizing the lifespan of bulbs to 1,000 hours, despite technology allowing for longer-lasting bulbs. This limitation ensured frequent turnover in sales, maximizing profits by creating a market where consumers had to replace bulbs more often.

The cartel's activities were exposed in the late 1920s, facing criticism for anti-competitive practices. By the late 1930s, the cartel had dissolved, and World War II further disrupted its activities. Post-war, the lighting industry shifted with the development of new technologies like fluorescent lighting. The Phoebus cartel remains a historical example of collusion among major companies to manipulate product lifespans for economic gain, practices now prohibited under modern antitrust laws.

The Shift to Modern Lighting Technologies

The world has moved beyond incandescent light bulbs. The European Union (EU) phased out traditional incandescent bulbs, starting with the ban on 100-watt bulbs in 2009, followed by 75-watt bulbs in 2010, 60-watt bulbs in 2011, and 40-watt bulbs in 2012. The EU Commission’s Ecodesign Regulation 2019/2020 and the revised EU ROHS DIRECTIVE 2011/65/EU have further restricted the use of mercury in light sources. As of 2023, several lighting products, including circular T5 fluorescent lamps and compact fluorescent lamps with plug-in bases (CFLni), are no longer available in the EU market. Linear T5 and T8 fluorescent lamps will follow from August 25, and Halogen pins (G4, GY6.35, G9) from September 1.

The Future of Lighting: LED and Beyond

The transition to LED technology marks a significant advancement in lighting. LEDs are energy-efficient, have a longer lifespan, and are environmentally friendly. Innovations in smart lighting systems allow for greater control and customization, enhancing both residential and commercial spaces.

Global Efforts and Environmental Impact

The shift to sustainable lighting technologies is part of a broader effort to combat climate change. Delegates from nearly 200 countries will discuss these issues at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai, aiming to accelerate the transition to a clean energy future. The goal is to reduce the environmental impact of lighting and other technologies, contributing to the preservation of polar bears, penguins, and other wildlife.

Conclusion

The evolution of lighting technologies from the days of the Phoebus cartel to modern LED innovations reflects significant progress. As we continue to embrace sustainable and energy-efficient solutions, the future of lighting looks bright, promising enhanced functionality, reduced environmental impact, and improved quality of life.