United Arab Emirates (UAE) moves to ban the sale of inefficient lamps starting July 1 in an effort to reduce energy bills and carbon emission.
The phase out of inefficient luminaires will save the country roughly GBP 106.8 million (US $181.1) on energy bills and reduce carbon emissions by 940,000 tons per year.
Once put into effect, all luminaires must meet the new indoor lighting standard based on environment, safety, and efficiency criteria. Incandescent luminaires will be replaced by CFLs, LEDs, or halogens.
Since the UAE does not have lighting manufacturers, the ban will specifically target imports. In addition, the ban will not affect existing inefficient luminaires, which make up 78 percent of lighting products.