The incandescent lamp is being discontinued in Europe because it is so inefficient, the replacement of 3.5 billion incandescent lamps installed throughout Europe will lead to a reduction in the power consumed by lighting systems by more than 30 percent.

Martin Goetzeler, CEO of OSRAM noted that the decision by the EU will help protect the climate and will help consumers reduce their electricity costs. For many years, the manufacture and sale of incandescent lamps have become less and less important for their business. The company manufactures incandescent lamps in Europe at its plants in Molsheim (France), Nove Zamky (Slovakia) and Wipperfürth (Germany). At all three sites OSRAM is pursuing a diversification strategy so that the company can reassign production capacity to other products as it becomes available.

Martin Goetzeler pointed out that as leading lighting manufacturer they provide high-quality alternatives on the market. They will therefore continue to drive this technological change. OSRAM already achieves more than 95 percent of its sales with other lamp types such as halogen lamps, fluorescent lamps, light emitting diodes (LEDs) and special lamps. Halogen lamps and energy-saving lamps are available in various forms, wattages and light colors and can be used as stylish and efficient replacements. The trend toward LED light sources will continue to gather pace. LEDs are opening up new lighting applications, particularly because of their small dimensions, energy efficiency and long life.

OSRAM has the broadest portfolio of energy-saving products in the world. This was recognized on December 5, 2008 with the German Sustainability Prize under the auspices of the German President. Consumers can reduce their electricity costs with energy-efficient lamps by up to 80 percent and at the same time make a contribution to climate protection.