Green light for energy savings

At an energy efficiency forum in Brussels, Royal Philips Electronics yesterday announced a number of energy efficient lighting solutions which could reduce costs, save energy and cut CO₂ emissions.

In view of the rising demand for energy and imminent climate change, Philips believes that by just switching from old to new technology, massive savings could be made. This could amount to €51bn in electricity cost per year, 273 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, 800 million barrels of oil, or the output of more than 265 power plants.

In the announcement, Philips said it thinks the time is right and momentum is there to globally prepare for a gradual switch-over from incandescent bulbs to energy saving bulbs. Philips is starting this initiative in Europe by calling for a collective action between the lighting industry, governments and NGOs with a target time frame for a switch-over in Europe of 10 years.