Under EU Regulations (EC) No 244/2009, inefficient incandescent light bulbs will be phased out throughout Europe from 01 September 2009.  These will be replaced by more energy efficient alternatives such as halogen lights and compact fluorescent lamps (CFL).  This regulation was agreed by all EU Member States in December 2008.

The aim of the Regulations is to remove the most energy inefficient lightbulbs from the market in favour of more energy efficient alternatives.  Not only will this save energy but it will also save the consumer money in reduced electricity bills.

Full details on the above is available on: http://www.entemp.ie/trade/environment/phasingoutofincandescentlightbulbs.htm