Short version
Many Norwegian homes and cabins still have old fluorescent light fittings and energy-saving bulbs in use. Perhaps there's a fluorescent tube hanging from the ceiling of your cabin that's been humming away for years, or a compact fluorescent bulb (energy-saving bulb) illuminating the storage room in the basement. Now it's time to rethink your lighting: The EU's RoHS directive is phasing out these mercury-containing light sources for good. This doesn't just mean that these lights will disappear from store shelves - it also means that you won't be able to get new ones if they stop working. Both electricians and end-users will benefit from knowing what's happening, why it's happening and how to smartly upgrade your lighting.
From August 2023, it will be forbidden to manufacture or import fluorescent lamps and energy-saving bulbs containing mercury in the EU and EEA. This comes as a result of the RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU), which aims to limit the use of hazardous substances in electronic products. Homeowners, cottage owners and electricians alike will now have to deal with the fact that these traditional light sources will soon no longer be available on the market.
What does this mean in practice?
Old fluorescent tubes and energy-saving bulbs are still common in Norwegian homes and cabins. These contain mercury, an environmental toxin that the EU has now decided should be taken off the market. When the old bulbs stop working, you can't get hold of new ones. Then you need to switch to modern LED solutions, which are both safer and more energy efficient.
You can use light sources that you already have, but you should have a plan for replacing them when they go out. The RoHS directive means that we have to deal with a new reality in lighting. Fortunately, this is good news - you have the opportunity to upgrade to lighting that is both safer, cheaper to run and often much better to live with on a daily basis. Where you currently use fluorescent tubes or energy-saving bulbs, you should plan a transition to LED. This applies to private homes, cabins and other buildings.
Practical benefits of LED
Switching to LED is not just about complying with regulations, it also provides several important practical benefits as listed below.
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#1
Energy savings
LEDs often consume half or less energy compared to fluorescent and energy saving lamps.
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#2
Longevity
An LED bulb can last for 15-25 years, which means less time and cost for bulb replacement.
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#3
Lighting comfort
LEDs turn on instantly, do not flicker and can be dimmed. With Tunable White, you can easily choose the light color for a warmer atmosphere.
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#4
Environmentally friendly
LED contains no toxins such as mercury and provides a safer everyday life both at home and in the cabin.
Smart LED options for your home and vacation home
There is no "one size fits all" when it comes to lighting. With the phasing out of the old light sources, you're free to choose from countless LED options, allowing you to tailor the lighting environment in your home or vacation home the way you want it. Whatever you choose, you can rest assured that the new solutions meet today's requirements and are sustainable choices. Below are some examples of lighting solutions that can be used as inspiration.
Recessed downlight for all rooms: Replace old fluorescent tubes with recessed LED downlights from SG's Junistar family. They provide even, comfortable illumination and are popular for easy installation with a secure insulation box. Choose between variants with DimToWarm or Tunable White for flexible light color and a warm atmosphere both at home and in the vacation home.
Ceiling chandeliers and wall lights: SG has several LED ceiling lights that replace old energy-saving bulbs, such as the Disc and Circulus, Frosta and Tube Micro Trio series. These ceilings provide even, glare-free light and are available with a built-in sensor that switches on and off automatically. Ideal for stalls, laundry rooms, etc. They have a 5-year warranty and withstand Norwegian weather conditions well, including low temperatures.
Sealed luminaires for garages and workshops: Robust LED luminaires such as Hurdal and Tysnes replace old fluorescent tubes in garages, workshops and sheds. The luminaires are slim, energy-efficient and available with a motion sensor that automatically controls the light. For extra energy efficiency, the Enøk series is recommended, specially designed for easy installation, optimum reliability and a long service life.
Decorative and flexible lighting: LEDstrip solutions from SG provide decorative and flexible lighting along skirting boards, under kitchen cabinets or on stairs. Use SG Smart for easy wireless control with sensors or a mobile app. This provides both increased comfort and energy savings, while at the same time opening up exciting and creative lighting solutions in homes and vacation homes.
How to get started?
To upgrade to LED in a smart way, we recommend that you start by mapping out what needs to be replaced, assessing how significant the changes will be and what you want to do together with professionals.
Most of the time, you don't need to replace ceilings or make significant changes as you can use rehab rings to adapt existing holes and surface-mounted luminaires that cover existing luminaires. When the project is completed, it's important to remember to hand in old fluorescent tubes and energy-saving bulbs as EE waste for safe handling!
The RoHS directive gives us an extra push for a brighter future. It requires some planning and action, but it also provides a great opportunity to renew your lighting, making it safer, more affordable and more atmospheric.
